Former Senator Elijah Reichlin-Melnick attended the Spring Hill Ambulance Corps’ monthly meeting to reaffirm his ongoing support for volunteer EMS workers and firefighters. During his last term in the New York State Senate, Reichlin-Melnick secured a $50,000 grant for Spring Hill EMS, which enabled the purchase of a 4×4 “Gator” rescue vehicle designed for emergencies in difficult-to-access wooded areas.
In addition to his financial contributions, Reichlin-Melnick introduced and successfully passed legislation that provides a 10% reduction in property tax assessments for volunteer first responders. During the meeting, he spoke about his intention to reintroduce a bill from three years ago aimed at offering an income tax credit to volunteers, particularly renters who don’t benefit from the property tax reduction.
Reichlin-Melnick emphasized the importance of providing meaningful financial relief to volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to keeping the community safe, regardless of their housing status. His renewed push for the income tax credit is part of his broader efforts to support and incentivize volunteer first responders across the state.