Legislation sponsored by Senator Craig M. Johnson (D-Nassau) that would help the Roslyn Rescue Fire Department retain and expand its membership passed the State Senate last week.

The bill (S.2269) would exempt the volunteer fire department from a pre-existing town law mandating that no more than 45 percent of its membership live outside of the district.

"Rising housing costs have made it so that many people who have grown up in the community can no longer afford to live within it, but want to continue to serve in it," Senator Johnson said. "It is our hope that this legislation will help the department continue its long and exemplary tradition of service to the community."

"One of the most difficult challenges we face is the ability to recruit and retain volunteers," added Henry Krukowski, president of the Roslyn Rescue Fire Department. "I would like to thank Senator Johnson for sponsoring this legislation, which will make it easier for us to provide fire protection services to our residents."

The Roslyn Rescue Fire Department is an all-volunteer outfit that has been in existence since 1852.

The measure passed the senate unanimously and was sent to the assembly, where it is sponsored by Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel and Assemblyman Charles Lavine.