Rockland Adopts Law To Provide Financial Assistance To Families Of Fallen Volunteer Firefighters, EMS & Auxiliary Police Members

Rockland County legislators voted Tuesday night to create a new program to provide grants of up to $1 million to the dependents of volunteer firefighters, EMS and auxiliary police members who are killed in the line of duty.

The Rockland County Volunteer Benefit Act recognizes the importance of the volunteers and their service to the overall community and provides financial assistance to dependents to honor their loved ones’ commitment and sacrifice.

County Legislator Paul Cleary, who is chairman of the Public Safety Committee and introduced the resolution, sought the input of the firefighting, emergency medical services and auxiliary police communities, along with the county executive’s office. 

He was prompted to act, in part, after seeing announcements for fundraisers such as Go Fund Me campaigns to help deceased volunteers’ families pay their bills.

County Executive Ed Day, a retired NYPD lieutenant-commander, backs the bill.

“As a former first responder, above all, I recognize the courage and sacrifice of our volunteer first responders and am proud to support this new bill for those killed in the line of duty,” Day said. “This tribute ensures loved ones of our heroes are cared for, while reflecting our deep gratitude for their service and dedication.”

The Rockland County Volunteer Benefit Act defines what a line of duty death is, and who is eligible to receive a grant, including a married spouse, children, and qualifying relatives. The benefit payable to all beneficiaries of a single volunteer is capped at $1 million and will be paid directly to each beneficiary. Each payment will be 10 percent of the total due to each beneficiary, with payments disbursed annually for up to 10 years.

 Funding for the grants will be provided through the appropriation of funds from the county’s general fund.

The law is not retroactive.