(a) As used in this Code section, the term “volunteer firefighter” means a person who is a volunteer firefighter, as defined in Code Section 47-7-1, relating to definitions regarding the Georgia Firefighters’ Pension Fund, and who receives no compensation for services as a volunteer firefighter other than:
(1) Actual expenses incurred;
(2) A per diem for services; (3) Contributions to the Georgia Firefighters’ Pension Fund; (4) Workers’ compensation coverage under Chapter 9 of Title 34; or
(5) Any combination of items specified in paragraphs (1) through (4) of this subsection.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 36-30-4, 45-2-2, or any other provision of law to the contrary, a volunteer firefighter for a county or municipal corporation shall be eligible to serve as a member of the governing authority of that county or municipal corporation.
(c) Nothing in this Code section shall require a county or municipal governing authority to make any of the payments or offer the benefits to volunteer firefighters specified in subsection (a) of this Code section.