2006 New York Code - Purpose.

 
    § 219-j.  Purpose. It is hereby declared that this article is intended
  to  effectuate  the  objects and purposes of section eighteen of article
  one of the constitution and that the relationship between the  political
  subdivision liable for payments of service awards under this article and
  a  volunteer  ambulance  worker  entitled  to  such  payments is that of
  employer and employee within  the  meaning  of  such  provision  of  the
  constitution.    In  no event shall the receipt of a service award under
  the provisions of this article be deemed to constitute membership in any
  pension or retirement system of the state or of a civil division thereof
  within the purview of section seven of article five of the constitution.