State Rep. Ron Robinson today testified alongside Rep. Matt Koleszar before the Senate Committee on Veterans and Emergency Services in support of their bipartisan plan to ensure firefighters and police officers who also serve in the National Guard or reserves do not lose income while fulfilling their service commitments.

House Bills 5232 and 5233 would require organized police and fire departments to provide up to 26 days of paid military leave annually for eligible employees serving in the reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Currently, when a member is out of personal leave time and still has military obligations, they must take unpaid leave,” said Koleszar (D-Plymouth). “This plan would cover both deployment for service in the reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as training. Additionally, time accrual and seniority considerations would not be impacted by those who are using these leave days.”

The legislation was developed after concerns were raised by the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union and is supported by both the union and the Police Officers Association of Michigan.

“This is where we step up and take care of our veterans,” said Robinson (R-Utica). “These are men and women who are working their civilian jobs protecting our communities while continuing to serve in the military. They shouldn’t be punished and forced to use their own PTO time or take a pay cut simply for doing their jobs.”

Robinson said the legislation recognizes the sacrifices made by first responders who answer the call both at home and in uniform and ensures they receive the support they have earned.

The package passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support and now awaits further consideration in the Senate.