Lehigh Times

Every day in Pennsylvania, first responders risk their own safety to ensure community protection. Thanks to legislation authored by State Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) and recently signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro, the Commonwealth now has a program to recognize those first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their duties.

Act 11 of 2024 establishes the Keystone First Responder Award to honor public servants who were either killed or suffered a career-ending injury in the line of duty from 2021 forward. The time frame for the new law aligns with the state’s line-of-duty death benefit sign-on period, which requires the benefit application be made within three years of the person’s death.

Eligible recipients for the award include law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, coroners, 911 dispatchers, and other first responders. The award consists of a plaque and a medal.

Under the new law, a committee comprising representatives from state fire, police, and emergency management organizations will be formed to administer and develop criteria for the award. This committee will provide a list of potential recipients to the governor, who will approve honorees and present the award annually at the end of September.

Rep. Mackenzie stated that honoring fallen first responders with this award ensures their bravery and dedication are remembered: "By honoring fallen first responders with this award, we will remember their bravery and dedication, ensure their supreme sacrifice is not forgotten for generations to come, and support their families and colleagues." He added that it also reinforces "the value of community they exemplified in their lives."

Mackenzie expressed pride in being the act’s prime sponsor: "I was proud to be the act’s prime sponsor and help shepherd this bill through the legislative process and see it signed into law in Pennsylvania."

Representative Ryan Mackenzie

187th Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Andy Briggs

717-260-6474

abriggs@pahousegop.com

RepMackenzie.com / Facebook.com/RepMackenzie

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