Legislation that would establish a new state program that recognizes Pennsylvania’s fallen first responders passed unanimously in the House of Representatives recently.

The Keystone First Responder Award would honor those public servants who were either killed or suffered a career-ending injury in the line of duty. Those eligible for the award would include law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, coroners, 911 dispatchers and other first responders.

Authored by state Rep Ryan E. Mackenzie (R-Lehigh), the measure would call for the creation of a committee to administer and develop the criteria for the award. The committee would then provide a list of potential recipients to the governor, who would choose the honorees and present the award annually at the end of September.

“Every day first responders in Pennsylvania answer the call to protect people and/or property, often risking their own safety. This award will honor and commemorate emergency responders who have made profound commitments while performing their duties as law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, coroners, or 911 dispatchers.” said Mackenzie.

House Bill 358 now heads to the Senate for consideration,