March 30,0218

This week, I had the privilege of joining Governor Rick Scott and CFO Jimmy Patronis for the signing of SB 376 to help first responders receive Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment. PTSD occurs when someone experiences a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. PTSD activates a fight-or-flight response in the body meant to protect a person from harm creating a range of emotions, such as extreme stress, depression and fear.

Our state has recently faced devastating tragedies, such as the attack at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando and the more recent massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. No amount of training can prepare the mind for the horrific scenes witnessed by first responding firefighters, law-enforcement, and paramedics in the wake of these unthinkable attacks. Florida’s first responders selflessly run into harm’s way to protect our communities without thinking about the emotional impact of their service.

Hours following these heartbreaking attacks, I had the privilege of meeting the brave Floridians who answered the call to serve. These men and women witnessed bloodshed similar to warzones and although they did not endure physical injuries, the emotional scars may last a lifetime.

I want to thank all our first responders who dedicate their lives to helping others. This bill recognizes the detrimental effect PTSD has on first responders and their families, and I commend my good friend Jimmy Patronis for making this one of his top legislative priorities, and Governor Rick Scott for signing this important legislation.

In closing, I want to wish a very happy Easter weekend and Passover to all those celebrating, may you all enjoy God’s blessings.