NY S05833

Authorizes school districts to grant real property tax exemptions for enrolled members of incorporated volunteer fire companies or fire departments, up to $12,000 multiplied by the latest state equalization rate, following a public hearing and adoption of a local law or resolution.

Requires exemption applicants to reside in the school district served by their fire company, own their primary residence that is used exclusively for residential purposes, and have been certified as an enrolled member for at least five years.

Allows volunteer firefighters with 20 or more years of active service to retain the exemption for life, provided their primary residence remains in the school district and the school district adopts a local law, ordinance or resolution authorizing this benefit.

Requires exemption applications to be filed with the assessor or designated school district office by the taxable status date on a form prescribed by the commissioner.

Protects existing volunteer firefighter benefits by preventing any diminution of benefits currently received due to the tax exemption provided under this law, effective immediately upon enactment.