Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement regarding the unanimous approval of House Bill 227 today by the Florida House of Representatives Government Accountability Committee.
“Our firefighters are attempting suicide at a rate FIVE TIMES HIGHER than the general population. Suicide is not a solution and we cannot ignore this issue any longer. Our conversations about mental health care in the wake of Parkland must include this reform that would allow first responders to access the mental health benefits they need.
“I urge the House and Senate to continue to move QUICKLY and ensure our first responders aren’t left behind.”
The next stop for HB 227, sponsored by Rep. Matt Willhite, is the House floor.
