Protecting America's First Responders Act of 2021

Floor Speech

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Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Protecting America's First Responders Act. This is an important bill that includes a provision that I have worked on for the last three Congresses to extend the PSOB program to fire police officers.

A dozen States have officers designated by law as fire police, who provide critical support at the scenes of fires, explosions, and serious accidents. They secure the perimeter so that other first responders can do their work safely.

However, because there is no uniform national designation for fire police, the current PSOB program doesn't cover these officers, even if they are killed or seriously injured on the job, which sadly has occurred.

It is only right that they receive the same protection as other public safety officers. This bill eliminates this exclusion and ensures that fire police and their families get the same benefits others do who provide first responder work.

I want to acknowledge the Gales Ferry Fire Department and Ledyard, Connecticut, Fire Chief Anthony Saccone, who has tirelessly advocated for fire police over the last few years. Thanks to their advocacy and engagement and Mr. Pascrell's great support, we will finally send this fix to the President's desk for signature.

Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of the bill.

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