Assemblywoman Buttenschon Proud to Co-Sponsor Bill Supporting EMS at the Local Level
Albany, NY – The New York State Assembly has officially passed Assembly Bill A.2177-A, a transformative piece of legislation that removes emergency medical services (EMS) from the real property tax levy limits imposed on local governments. As a proud co-sponsor of the bill, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D–119) emphasized the critical importance of the measure, calling it a long-overdue lifeline for local EMS providers and the communities they serve.
“For far too long, our local EMS agencies have been expected to perform miracles with limited funding, shrinking staff, and growing demands,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “This bill ensures that municipalities can finally give these heroes the support they deserve, without being handcuffed by outdated fiscal restrictions. As someone who has walked alongside EMTs, volunteers, and fire service professionals, I know firsthand the unimaginable pressure they face. This legislation is not just about dollars, it’s about protecting lives.”
Communities across New York have struggled to maintain reliable EMS coverage due to rising operational costs, low insurance reimbursements, and critical staffing shortages. Assembly Bill A.2177-A, sponsored by Assemblymember Donna Lupardo and supported by a bipartisan group of co-sponsors including Assemblywoman Buttenschon, directly addresses these challenges by removing EMS expenses from the property tax cap. This allows local governments greater flexibility to invest in equipment, training, wages, and staffing, without penalty.
“We owe it to every resident to ensure help arrives when they call 911,” Buttenschon continued. “Today’s vote sends a clear message: we are not turning our backs on the people who rush toward danger. I am proud to have co-sponsored this bill because I believe in fighting for those who fight for us. Every heartbeat saved, every life stabilized, starts with the strength of our EMS system, and this law brings us one step closer to ensuring no one is left behind.”
The bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate for further action.
