A9345

The New York State Senate passed Assembly Bill 9345, legislation to amend the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law, on a 60-1 vote. The measure, sponsored by Assemblymember Kelles, addresses recruitment challenges facing volunteer fire companies by waiving a provision that limits nonresident members to 40 percent of actual membership. Sen. Webb, who explained her affirmative vote, highlighted how the bill will enable the Varna Volunteer Fire Company in Tompkins County to expand partnerships with Cornell University and Ithaca College to recruit new members. She characterized the initiative as essential for maintaining first response services in rural areas. Only Sen. Skoufis voted in opposition. The bill takes effect immediately.