David Lombardo is reporting for Capitol Confidential state Assemblymember Chris Tague is sponsoring legislation that would offer a full state income tax exemption as a way to motivate state residents to become volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services personnel. The exemption would apply to volunteers with at least one year of service who responded to at least 55 percent of their organization's annual emergency calls. “Giving these volunteers tax free status from state income taxes we can help shore up the volunteerism that is the lifeblood of these institutions,” the Schoharie Republican said. “It’s a public safety issue, but it’s also about respect and our own peace of mind.” The use of volunteers saves New York more than $3.8 billion annually, according to Tague’s office. The legislation is in the committee process in both the Assembly and the Senate. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.