State Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica) today announced that his bipartisan plan to better support first responders who also serve in the military passed out of the House Committee on Government Operations unanimously.

House Bills 5232 and 5233, introduced by Reps. Robinson and Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth), ensure police officers and firefighters who serve in the National Guard or Reserves receive up to 26 days of paid military leave each year before being required to use personal leave time.

“I’m grateful to see this bipartisan plan receive unanimous support,” said Robinson. “This is about fairness and recognizing the dual service of the men and women who protect our neighborhoods and defend our nation. They should never be penalized at work for answering a military obligation.”

These bills would require police and fire departments to provide paid military leave to eligible employees, preventing them from having to use vacation or personal days to fulfill required drills or training. Under current policy, once personal leave is depleted, first responders must take unpaid time off to meet their military commitments.

“Our first responders already give so much through demanding schedules, missed family moments, and the pressures that come with protecting our communities,” said Robinson. “When they step into military service, they’re taking on an additional responsibility to our country. They shouldn’t have to worry about losing pay or using hard-earned time off to fulfill that commitment.”

The bills now move to the House Floor for further consideration.