Albany, NY – The Co-Chairs of NYS Legislative Aviation Caucus, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Senator John Brooks, announced that Governor Hochul singed their legislation to benefit New York’s Chapter of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP); the NY Wing. The bill (A1414/S4719) ensures that public employees, who are members of the NY Wing, are entitled to paid leave for emergency services during a declared state of emergency. This bill would provide Wing members with the same benefits as members of organizations such as the American Red Cross.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “This legislation acknowledges the important role members of the NY Wing play during states of emergency. It also helps to highlight the many essential services the Civil Air Patrol performs, including addressing the nationwide pilot shortage through cadet training programs. I am honored to be an advocate for the Wing. In fact, our entire Legislative Squadron stands ready to support their activities in any way we can.”

Senator John Brooks said, “The members of the NY Wing provide essential assistance to state and local government and law enforcement agencies during times of crisis. Without their support, government response to disaster would be severely hindered. This legislation is about acknowledging the importance of their missions. Through enabling public employees who are members of the NY Wing to be compensated for time spent responding to an emergency, we communicate to them that their work is valued. I am proud to support the NY Wing and I thank them for all that they do towards the protection of New York State."

Colonel John Jones, New York Wing Commander, said “For nearly 80 years, Civil Air Patrol members have volunteered their time to respond in the event of natural disasters and other emergencies in New York State, providing critical support to local and state agencies. This important legislation will allow many of our members to continue to respond without the stress of having to worry about taking leave from work. New York Wing thanks Assemblymember Donna Lupardo and Senator John Brooks for their critical support of this bill. We also thank the entire Legislature for passing this bill, and Governor Hochul for signing it into Law.”

The Civil Air Patrol’s core mission includes providing emergency services, aerospace education, pilot training, and youth development. They have responded to many natural disasters, providing services such as aerial photography, damage assessment, and ground support. The CAP also donated thousands of hours of service during the COVID-19 pandemic at vaccination and food distribution sites.

Lupardo and Brooks are also members of the NY Wing’s Legislative Squadron which serves as advocates for the Civil Air Patrol. State Legislators are granted the grade of Major and are also able to participate in Wing missions. Assemblywoman Lupardo was recently promoted to Lt. Colonel, as well as Commander of the Legislative Squadron.