§ 2. Purpose. In recognition of the unselfish service given to the
people of New York state by these volunteer ambulance workers,
government has undertaken to provide for them and their families some
measure of protection against loss from death or injuries in the line of
duty. This chapter establishes a system of benefits for volunteer
ambulance workers and provides for the administration of such system by
the workers' compensation board and the chairman of such board.

It is hereby declared that this chapter is intended to effectuate the
objects and purposes of section eighteen of article one of the state
constitution and that the relationship between the political subdivision
or volunteer ambulance company liable for benefits under this chapter
and a volunteer ambulance worker entitled to such benefits is that of
employer and employee within the meaning of such provision of the state
constitution.