Supporting first responders is essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. These brave individuals risk their lives daily to protect and serve, often encountering dangerous and traumatic situations. Recognizing their sacrifices and providing appropriate support and compensation when they are injured in the line of duty is not only a moral obligation but a critical measure to sustain the resilience and functionality of emergency services.
Last week, the Senate unanimously passed S.2887, An Act Relative to Disability Pensions and Critical Incident Stress Management for Violent Crimes. This landmark legislation guarantees that first responders who suffer permanent injuries from violent acts while on duty will receive their full regular compensation until they reach retirement age. This bill ensures financial security for first responders and their families, acknowledging the significant sacrifices made by those serving their state, county, city, or town.
The legislation authorizes any employee who is a member-in-service of a retirement board to be eligible for accidental disability retirement if they sustain a catastrophic, life-threatening, or permanent bodily injury that prevents them from performing their duties. Retirement boards are tasked with reviewing appropriate evidence, such as medical panel findings, to determine if the injury was caused by a violent act and if it permanently impairs the member's ability to perform essential job functions. This measure ensures that first responders receive the support they need to transition into retirement after such debilitating injuries.
Additionally, the bill mandates that first responders involved in incidents exposing them to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence must receive notice of critical incident stress management debriefing programs. This provision highlights the importance of mental health support, ensuring that first responders have access to necessary resources to cope with the psychological impacts of their experiences. Providing mental health support is crucial to maintaining the long-term well-being of these individuals and their ability to continue serving effectively.
Having previously been passed by the House, the bill requires one more enacting vote in each legislative branch before being sent to the Governor for her consideration. This legislation represents a significant step forward in supporting first responders, ensuring they receive the care and compensation they deserve for their service and sacrifices.
This is a vital piece of legislation that emphasizes the importance of supporting first responders. By ensuring financial security and access to mental health resources, we are setting a precedent for how we treat those who put their lives on the line for our safety. As the bill moves towards becoming law, it stands as a testament to our commitment to valuing and protecting its first responders
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For media questions, please contact:
Giselle Rivera-Flores, Director of Communications at giselle.riveraflores@masenate.gov
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