Statement from HPAE President Ann Twomey on the Governor’s Veto of Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Emergency Responders (S1778)

Health Professionals and Allied Employees/AFT/AFL-CIO

110 Kinderkamack Road

Emerson, NJ 07630

201-262-5005

www.hpae.org

Contact: Jeanne Otersen 201-262-5005

Cell 201-280-9279 or Ann Twomey 201-424-5767

Statement from Ann Twomey, President, HPAE:

“Today Governor Christie vetoed legislation to improve our workers’ compensation system, and  failed to protect First Responders – including nurses, firefighters police and other emergency personnel – the people who rush in towards danger, rather than run away.

Nurses are often part of hospital first responder teams, and willingly provide emergency medical care and rescue operations for our neighbors and families, often risking their own health and safety. 

Many of the dangerous substances or toxins First Responders come in contact with cause serious, life-long illnesses and even death.  Instead of gaining coverage and protection from our workers’ compensation system, First Responders often have to fight long costly legal battles to prove the link between their exposure and  illnesses that sometimes show up years later.

New Jersey, one of the most densely populated states, has more than 3000 facilities that store or use hazardous substances.  With this veto, Governor Christie has forgotten those who protect us from everyday fires as well as catastrophic and terrorist events.    We must do better to protect those who protect us – and we urge the NJ Legislature to override Governor Christie’s veto.”

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