McGonagle Testifies in Support of First Responders

The Rep. spoke in favor of his bill supporting first responders with PTSD

Special to The Advocate

Last week State Representative Joe McGonagle was pleased to testify before the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Public Service in favor of his bill H.2909, An Act relative to the disability or death caused by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). H.2909 would grant disability to first responders who are unable to work due to PTSD presumed to have been obtained in the line of duty by a medical professional certified to diagnose mental conditions. This is the third session in which Rep. McGonagle has filed this bill.

“Our first responders are constantly exposed to horrific scenes while protecting the community,” said McGonagle. “Some of these stories make the news but many we never hear and we can never know the trauma and suffering they endure. First responders are everyday heroes and it is our duty to help them as they help us. This bill ensures that they will know we hear them, want to listen and support them.”

H.2909 is heavily supported by the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts (PFFM) though the bill covers an array of first responders aside from firefighters. The bill remains in the Joint Committee on Public Service as it awaits a report from the Committee.