THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, OCTObER 27, 2023 Page 13 McGonagle testifies on PTSD-related disability in first responders Rep. Joe McGonagle testified before the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Public Service in favor of his bill. (Courtesy photo) Rep. Joe McGonagle testified before the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Public Service in favor of his bill. (Courtesy photo) O n October 3, State Representative Joe McGonagle testified before the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Public Service in favor of his bill, H.2594, An Act relative to the disability or death caused by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). H.2594 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 second session in which McGonagle has filed this bill. “Our first responders are increasingly being faced with more and more disturbing and violent situations,” said McGonagle. “They put their lives on the line to protect all of us and our communities and we need to take a step to protect them. We live in an age where we better understand mental health and the intricacies of our brains. We also know PTSD is a real and devastating disease. We as a Commonwealth already support first responders with cancers and lung diseases presumed to be from the line of duty. This is no different and we are doing our brothers and sisters a great disservice if we do not pass Rep. Joe McGonagle (second from left), Randy Greeley, Craig Hardy and Paul Jaques of the PFFM. (Courtesy photo) this legislation.” H.2594 is heavily supported by the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts (PFFM), although 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. ~ Vote Tuesday, November 7th ~ James A. Mastrocola Ward 4 School Committee As your School Committe Rep, I will... * Hold administrators accountable to parents for transparency & curriculum. * Ensure the safety & security of all students so they can focus on their studies. * Be fully committed to the vision of high expectations for student achievement. For a Ride to the Polls, Call: (972) 273-0211 Informed, Conscientious & Accessible (Paid Pol. Adv.)
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