New legislation introduced in both the State Senate and Assembly could better help first responders contending with long COVID.
The legislation (A-5136/S-3660) was introduced by Assemblywoman Shanique Speight (D-29) on Feb. 6, followed by State Sens. Vin Gopal (D-11) and Linda Greenstein (D-14) introduced the Senate version on Feb. 27.
While many people who contract the COVID-19 virus make a full recovery, the CDC has begun to track what it calls “long COVID.” The agency noted post-COVID conditions can include a wide range of ongoing health problems; these conditions can last weeks, months, or years. General symptoms of long COVID include tiredness/fatigue, fever, difficulty breathing, and chest pain among others.
Helping First Responders
“As a law enforcement officer I watched as many of my colleagues tackled cases of domestic violence and abuse, which grew to outstanding rates during the pandemic. These officers risked their health and the health of their families to fulfill their duty to protect and serve,” said Speight.
“Unfortunately, many of my fellow officers have experienced long COVID symptoms, resulting in lingering health problems and lost wages. This legislation ensures that we provide a helping hand to first responders in need,” she continued.
Addressing Economic Losses
The First Responders COVID-19 Supplemental Benefits Program would address the economic losses of first responders who are eligible for workers’ compensation as they contend with long-term symptoms.
“Throughout the pandemic, our first responders continued to do their jobs and help people in emergencies, regardless of the personal risk and the concern that they could bring COVID-19 home to their families. We must make the first responders who suffered financial losses because they got sick with COVID financially sound again,” said Gopal.
The bill appropriates $20 million from the state General Fund for the program. The bill has been referred to the Law and Public Safety Committees of both houses of the legislature.
CDC on Long COVID
CDC noted diagnosing long COVID could be difficult as some people with post-COVID conditions have symptoms which are not explained by tests and can be difficult to manage as well.
“The symptoms are similar to those reported by people with ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) and other poorly understood chronic illnesses that may occur after other infections,” the agency wrote. “People with these unexplained symptoms may be misunderstood by their healthcare providers, which can result in a long time for them to get a diagnosis and receive appropriate care or treatment.”
“This program is a vital step towards recognizing the sacrifices they’ve made by helping to alleviate the economic hardships faced by those who contract COVID-19 on the job. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill, and I look forward to working together to help our first responders in their time of need,” said Greenstein.
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