House Dems honor first responders on anniversary of 9/11
COLUMBUS –House Minority Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) today issued a statement on the 19th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks against the United States.
“September 11, 2001 is a day that Americans will never forget. On that fateful day, our nation changed forever as we lost nearly 3,000 innocent lives, including 400 first responders,” said Leader Sykes.
“Just as they did on 9/11, first responders have continued to answer our calls during the COVID-19 pandemic. Every day, these brave individuals put their lives on the line to keep our communities healthy and safe. First responders have always been there in our times of need— now it’s time for us to show our appreciation and put their needs first.”
House Democrats have long prioritized bills that would help support first responders. In February 2020, Democrats celebrated the House passage of a measure that would allow first responders diagnosed with work-related PTSD to qualify for BWC compensation and benefits, something Democrats have fought for in recent General Assemblies.
This May, in response to the global pandemic, Rep. Brigid Kelly (D-Cincinnati) introduced House Bill (HB) 605 to give front line workers, including peace officers, fire fighters and emergency medical workers, access to workers’ compensation if they contract COVID-19 while on the job.