March 5, 2009

Legislator Schmitt Proposes Free Education Credits
for Nassau County Volunteers

The nine members of the Republican caucus of the Nassau County Legislature filed legislation to provide free college classes for volunteers in Nassau County.  If passed, this new legislation will allow volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers in Nassau County to receive up to 60 free credit hours of coursework at Nassau Community College.

“During difficult economic times, it is hard for people to sacrifice time for volunteer activities, yet our fire and ambulance corps are vital to maintain the level of public safety we require in Nassau County,” said Legislative Minority Leader Peter J. Schmitt.  “This program will provide a great incentive to encourage people to continue to volunteer or to join our volunteer fire departments or ambulance crews,” said Legislator Schmitt. 

The law enables the county’s Office of Emergency Management to apply for Federal grant monies to pay for the college credits.  “This is a great way for the county to give back to the residents who work so hard to live here.  There is no additional cost to the taxpayers and it underscores our appreciation for the men and women who volunteer to protect us,” said Legislator Schmitt.