ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY, N.Y. -- New legislation waiting for Governor Cuomo’s signature would make it easier for volunteers to participate in search and rescue operations. Anyone interested in assisting emergency personnel during searches could take a training and safety course through the DEC. Then, should a situation arise, anyone who completed that course would be certified to help out.

The hope is that volunteers would be less prone to injury, and the legislation would protect local communities from lawsuits of any kind.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Patty Ritchie, passed both the Senate and Assembly, and is now waiting for the governor's signature.