House Passes Shaban’s Bill Expanding Tax Exemptions for the Families of Fallen First Responders

On Wednesday State Rep. John Shaban (R-135) successfully pushed through a measure that will allow tax exemptions for surviving spouses of EMTs killed in the line of duty.

Current law grants municipalities the option to waive the local property tax burden for the surviving spouses of firefighters and policemen who die in the line of duty. Shaban’s amendment adds EMTs to the existing list.

Shaban originally proposed a more expansive bill that would have also offered state income tax relief for the surviving spouse of a fallen first responder. The bill was prompted by the tragic death of fireman Lieutenant Russell F. Neary of Easton who died in the line of duty as he cleared debris from a roadway following Hurricane Sandy.

“While we were exploring the broader state income tax exemption,” Shaban said, “I learned that the EMTs standing near Russ at the time of his death would likely not qualify for the local property tax abatement under the current law. So I began work to change that as well.”

The broader measure was scuttled by opposition from the Governor’s offices, citing concerns with setting bad tax policy precedent. Shaban nevertheless continued working to get the EMT amendment passed (LCO 7522). “While it’s not the broader state income tax abatement I wanted, I am proud we could at least pass this EMT amendment in the House as a small tribute to Russ Neary and the other first responders who serve us all.”

The amendment will now progress to the Senate for further consideration. The 2013 legislative session adjourns June 5.