OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation authored by Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah, to support first responders who suffer serious medical emergencies after strenuous duty work passed the Oklahoma House floor today.

House Bill 4260 would allow firefighters, peace officers and emergency medical technicians to receive workers’ compensation benefits if they experience a heart attack or stroke within eight hours of completing a shift involving strenuous emergency response activity or training.

"I am glad my colleagues understand the importance of this bill and that when our first responders run toward danger, they put more than their safety on the line," Hays said. "The physical strain of fighting a fire, pursuing a suspect or responding to a medical emergency can take a serious toll on the heart. This bill simply recognizes that reality and ensures they are not left fighting for benefits after giving everything on the job."

Under the bill, qualifying incidents must occur following activities such as fire suppression, rescue operations, law enforcement response, hazardous material incidents or emergency medical care, as well as related training exercises. The legislation would apply to first responders employed by the state or a political subdivision and does not include clerical or administrative duties.

HB4260 also includes a sunset date of Nov. 1, 2031, to allow lawmakers to review the fiscal impact of the policy. If signed into law, the measure would take effect Nov. 1.

The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration, where Sen. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, is the Senate author.