Untitled Document

News Release
Congressman Bob Etheridge
North Carolina

March 17 , 2004

Contact: Sara Lang
Phone: (202) 225-4531

Firefighters Name Etheridge Legislator of the Year

WASHINGTON - In recognition of his work on behalf of firefighters and first responders, U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) has been named "Legislator of the Year" by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI). Etheridge, who authored the Hometown Heroes Survivor Benefit Act, will receive the award May 5th at the 16th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner in Washington, DC.

"To be honored by firefighters, who bravely and honorably protect our communities each and every day, means a great deal to me," Etheridge said. "Passing the Hometown Heroes Act was a powerful tribute to our first responders and their families for their commitment and their sacrifice. I am honored and humbled by this recognition."

The Hometown Heroes Survivor Benefit Act, which was signed into law in December, extends federal survivor benefits to the families of firefighters, police officers and emergency workers who die of heart attack or stroke while in the line of duty.

The Public Safety Officers Benefit (PSOB) was created by Congress in 1976 to offer peace of mind to men and women seeking careers in public safety and to make a strong statement about the value American society places on the contributions of those who serve their communities in potentially dangerous situations. Prior to the passage of Etheridge's legislation, the benefit, which is administered by the Department of Justice, was routinely denied to the families of officers who died of heart attack or stroke in the line of duty.

"I wrote the Hometown Heroes Act on behalf of the widows and orphans of our fallen brothers. Never again should they be denied the Public Safety Officers Benefit their loved one earned with the ultimate sacrifice," Etheridge said.

Bill Webb, executive director CSFI, noted Etheridge's work on behalf of firefighters. "Passage of this legislation was a top priority for the fire and emergency services in 2003," Webb said. "We would not have prevailed were it not for the passion, dedication and commitment of Congressman Etheridge."

Established in 1989 as a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, CFSI is designed to educate members of Congress on issues that make a difference for the emergency services. Because of its nonpartisan nature, CFSI is a proven source for accurate and objective information on fire service issues. In consultation with over 45 national fire service organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, CFSI promotes its motto, "So That Fire Responders Never Stand Alone."