McLaughlin signs First Responder Act to protect emergency services
TROY, N.Y. » Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin signed the First Responder Act Friday. The act is a local law designed to protect emergency services as they carry out their duties and to show support for their mission. The law was signed following a Sept. 28 virtual public hearing on the law. The law was adopted earlier in the month by a 17-2 margin, showing strong bipartisan support. “Rensselaer County values the service, dedication, and bravery of our first responders. Their service benefits our residents every day, and means a great deal to our quality of life,” McLaughlin remarked.
“This law sends a necessary message to anyone who would try to impede or delay our first responders that such conduct is not welcome in this county,” McLaughlin explained. The law was adopted by the County Legislature at the Sept. 8 legislative meeting.
The law would make it illegal in the county to harass, delay, prevent or otherwise disable emergency services, including ambulances, from carrying out their duties. The law would have powers equivalent to harassment.
Similar laws to protect the service of first responders have been adopted in Broome counties. McLaughlin noted a number of first responders and departments had sent messages of support for the law.
“We know the overwhelming majority of residents value and appreciate the service of our first responders. This law reflects that appreciation and recognition of selfless service,” McLaughlin added.