§ 2. Purpose. In recognition of the unselfish service given to the people of New York state by these volunteer ambulance workers, government has undertaken to provide for them and their families some measure of protection against loss from death or injuries in the line of duty. This chapter establishes a system of benefits for volunteer ambulance workers and provides for the administration of such system by the workers' compensation board and the chairman of such board.

It is hereby declared that this chapter is intended to effectuate the objects and purposes of section eighteen of article one of the state constitution and that the relationship between the political subdivision or volunteer ambulance company liable for benefits under this chapter and a volunteer ambulance worker entitled to such benefits is that of employer and employee within the meaning of such provision of the state constitution.