Senator Helming Bill to Bolster Fire Department Recruitment Passes Education Committee with Bipartisan Support

Legislation sponsored by Senator Pam Helming to help fire departments recruit new junior members has advanced out of the Senate Education Committee with bipartisan support. The proposed legislation (S.3057-A) allows volunteer fire departments to make recruitment presentations at local high schools. 

Senator Helming’s bill addresses a glaring barrier to recruitment by allowing local fire departments to make presentations to interested students at high schools across New York State. The Senator’s bill received unanimous support from both Republicans and Democrats on the committee. 

Senator Helming said, “The future of our volunteer fire departments and the safety of our communities depends on recruiting new members. My bill will allow fire departments to introduce interested high school students to these volunteer opportunities. It is not mandatory but simply allows them to give presentations and distribute literature to students. Establishing an early connection with young adults increases the likelihood they will join their local department and enjoy a long and successful career as a volunteer firefighter. I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move this bill forward.”