Rush, Norman Introduce Bill To Make National First Responders Day a Federal Holiday

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) and Ralph Norman (R-SC) announced that they have introduced H.R. 8724, legislation that would designate October 28th as “National First Responders Day” across America, adding it to the current list of 10 “legal public holidays” under current law.

“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made the importance of the contributions our first responders make in every community across the United States clearer than ever,” said Rush.  “Firefighters, police officers, and Emergency Medical Services workers put their lives on the line every day to protect our neighborhoods.  Whether that crucial work involves extinguishing potentially deadly fires, keeping our streets safe, or delivering urgent and lifesaving medical services, first responders are there when Americans need them.  Every day, our first responders selflessly serve their communities, often at great personal cost.  While we can never fully repay first responders for the critical work that they do each day, a Federal holiday in their honor is one small way that we can demonstrate our gratitude.”

“My support for first responders is unwavering.  The heroism firefighters, police officers, and paramedics show has never been clearer than it is right now.  The Coronavirus has tested us all, and local first responders everywhere have continuously stepped up to protect their communities.  I am proud to introduce this legislation to help recognize these incredible men and women,” said Norman.

This legislation is a result of both lawmakers’ belief that, regardless of the danger, our firefighters, police officers, and paramedics are on the front lines to protect our safety and wellbeing.  The selflessness and heroism these individuals display deserves to be celebrated.

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