Legislation Signed To Prevent Sex Offenders From Become Volunteer Firefighters

Legislation that would prohibit registered sex offenders from being volunteer firefighters has been signed in law by Governor Cuomo.

The legislation was sponsored by Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi.

The new law requires that anyone who must register as a sex offender upon conviction will immediately be disqualified as a member of a volunteer fire department.

Brindisi says the new law also will require applicants for membership in a volunteer fire department to undergo a background check for previous sex offenses as a condition of membership.

“Volunteer firefighters are looked up to as leaders of their communities,” Brindisi said.  “This law will ensure that individuals who are on the sex offense registry, or who have prior convictions in this area will no longer be able to have the privilege of serving as a first responder.”