Volunteer fire departments in our area and across New York state need more volunteers, but the necessary commitment, the training requirements and people's lack of available time deter many from joining the departments.

Clearly, more incentives would help fire companies attract volunteers. U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., earlier this month announced a proposal for a new incentive. He's proposing legislation that would offer a $1,000 tax credit for active members of volunteer firefighting and emergency medical service organizations. Under the legislation, any taxpayer who is a volunteer firefighter or EMS?worker for at least six months would be entitled to the refundable federal tax credit. A?refundable tax credit means if the credit exceeds the taxpayer's federal tax liability, he would receive the remainder as a tax refund.

Schumer announced his measure at the Hagaman Volunteer Fire Department.

"There is no better way to support our first responders than to help recruit more volunteers. The $1,000 tax credit will also provide an important incentive to help volunteer firefighters maintain their staffs," Schumer said in a news release.

He said it's becoming more difficult to find people to serve as firefighters because families have increasing demands on their time or face financial concerns that limit their ability to volunteer their help.

Many volunteer firefighters would agree with that assessment.

The tax credit likely would be effective. To those who disagree with it, we would remind them that firefighters are necessary, and if localities can't find enough volunteers, local taxpayers may have to pay firefighters for their services.