Dear Senators Gillibrand and Hawley,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for S. 666, the “First Responders Wellness Act.”
First responders put their lives on the line everyday – mentally, physically, and emotionally. Dangerous or traumatic situations ultimately increase the the likelihood of poor sleep, stress, grief, or similar. First responders face higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and suicide, and require culturally competent peer and emotional support resources as well as increased access to these resources to ensure their wellbeing both on and off duty.
Your legislation would establish a national hotline for first responders through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that would provide counseling, peer support, emotional support, intervention, and substance abuse resources. Further, HHS will provide recommendations, via an official report, on establishing a mobile health care delivery site at the scene of major disasters. Our nation’s military veterans have access to resources specifically tailored to them, and our first responders should undoubtedly be entitled to the same. With the establishment of this hotline, individuals will be better positioned to execute their duties – and subsequently be able to continue their duties – following a traumatic incident.
On behalf of the more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I thank you both for your leadership on this important issue. If I can provide any additional information about this bill, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President