On a related note, I have authored a couple of other bills that -- while not directly related to the press conference -- I believe would be helpful to first responders across the state:
HB 2523: State Grant for Turnout Gear
Appropriate turnout gear is a must for any firefighter, and they are expensive for many departments. This bill would create a state grant program to cover the cost of the gear for every firefighter who obtains a Firefighter 2 certification and has been in good standing with their department for two years. The goal of this bill is to help replace fundraising time with training time, and to better prepare our firefighters. Those who qualify would be eligible every five years.
HB 1853: Connecting Firefighters with Preventive Physical & Mental Healthcare
Cancer and heart-related disease in firefighters are a constant concern. Annual physicals designed to address those issues can and have saved lives. Some departments, though, can’t afford to cover the costs and some personal insurances won't. This bill would reimburse the annual costs of these physicals for qualifying firefighters. Exams should never be dependent on department fundraising.
HB 2516: Defining 911 Dispatchers as First Responders
Dispatchers are often the first, first responders, and a well-trained dispatcher can save lives with time-sensitive, mission-critical information. They also often bear the traumatic brunt of very personal and harrowing moments, while needing to provide a sense or calm during what could be the worst moments of a caller’s life. However, even with these expectations and stressful demands, dispatchers are defined in law as clerical/administrative positions for reporting purposes. This bill would more accurately define their job responsibilities and help them be recognized for what they are -- essential first responders.
HB 667: Insurance for all Police
In too many situations, police officers have to work multiple part-time jobs, in and out of law enforcement, in order to get health insurance. This bill would change that, to require all officers to be provided healthcare insurance. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it also would encourage the hiring of more full-time police officers rather than relying on part-time officers to minimize benefit costs.
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