Governor Talks With Public Safety Coalition
POAM and Public Safety Coalition Address Legislative Leadership Majority
From the desk of our Legislative Director Kenneth E. Grabowski, POAM and the Michigan Public Safety Coalition have been working on issues impacting law enforcement personnel across the state. This week, we held Zoom video calls with Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey and Speaker of the House Lee Chatfield. The issues we are advocating for are not partisan issues, and we are working with both Republicans and Democrats on common-sense solutions.
Four Immediate Issues
As of Wednesday, April 15, 2020, we have stressed to the Governor, the Senate, House Democrat leadership, and other legislators, there are four issues that need immediate attention by our state leaders:
Premium/Hazard Pay
This hazard pay would be for all first responders throughout the state.
Immediate Testing For First Responders
Testing would provide quick results, as we would also want this to implement a statewide standard.
Personal Protection Equipment
PPE equipment is lacking, and a statewide standard and availability need to be addressed.
Workers Compensation
Reinstate the original portion of the Governor’s initial executive order, which provides workers compensation to first responders if they are exposed to COVID-19, and includes all first responder employees who are subject to the hazard.
Wednesday, April 9 Update
POAM continued their discussions with the House Democratic and Senate Democratic leadership about the issues listed below and an additional topic regarding premium/hazard pay for first responders and health care workers.
Friday, April 3 Update
On Friday, April 3, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer conducted a Zoom conference meeting with POAM and members of Michigan’s Public Safety Coalition (PSC).
Governor Whitmer is very concerned with our needs and pledged to help in all ways possible.
Conversation Topics
Testing
Streamline testing for public safety will become available. It will be introduced as a statewide recommendation.
Personal Protection Equipment
The state government plans to get the many pieces of equipment we need. Additionally, they will identify direct contact that all agencies can use.
Workers Compensation
Lastly, the state government will strengthen the language to make sure all first responders are covered at the inception of virus contact. This includes 911 operators in the definition of public safety employees. All other classifications are still currently included.
For More Information
Stay tuned to our website, social channels, and mobile app for continuous Public Safety Coalition news updates.
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