The New York City Council has approved several bills aimed at enhancing safety measures for EMS workers, including providing body armor and self-defense training. The legislation, primarily sponsored by Minority Leader Joseph Borelli, mandates that the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) provide additional safety measures to protect EMS workers from various dangers they face while on the job, such as assaults. Borelli emphasized the importance of protecting these courageous individuals who risk their lives daily to save others and ensuring they can return safely to their families.
One of the bills, Introduction 126-A, requires the FDNY to supply EMS workers with body armor that meets ballistic and stab-resistant standards. Another bill, Introduction 127-A, calls for the fire department to offer de-escalation and self-defense training to EMS workers, which would be made available once every third calendar year. Borelli expressed satisfaction in finally seeing these bills approved after years of advocacy, stressing that EMTs are not “second-rate first responders” and deserve the best equipment and training possible.
The approved bills will now be sent to Mayor Eric Adams for consideration. EMS workers in New York City have faced physical attacks in the past, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures. In one incident in August 2023, a man was indicted on charges of attempted murder and assault after stabbing an EMT multiple times in the back of an ambulance. The victim, 25-year-old EMT Julia Fatum, suffered critical injuries, requiring multiple surgeries to treat wounds and nerve damage caused by the attack. The approval of these bills is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of EMS workers who serve the city.
Minority Leader Joseph Borelli expressed his contentment in successfully pushing for the passage of bills that prioritize the safety of EMS workers. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the invaluable service provided by these individuals and ensuring they have access to adequate protection and training to handle challenging situations they encounter while on duty. The bills promise to equip EMS workers with essential resources, such as body armor and self-defense training, to better prepare them for potential dangers they may face while serving the community.
The introduction of these bills represents a significant milestone in prioritizing the safety and well-being of EMS workers in New York City. The provision of body armor and self-defense training serves as a crucial step towards ensuring that these individuals are adequately prepared to handle the risks and challenges of their profession. The approval of the bills underscores the city’s commitment to supporting and protecting EMS workers who play a vital role in saving lives and providing essential medical assistance to residents. Mayor Eric Adams now has the opportunity to further advance the protection of EMS workers by signing these bills into law, demonstrating the city’s dedication to safeguarding those who selflessly serve the community.
