Proposed City Ordinance Stiffens Penalties For Assaulting EMS Workers

CHICAGO — A proposed ordinance that would stiffen penalties for assaulting an emergency service provider was introduced Wednesday in the Chicago City Council. Ald. Matt O’Shea (19th), in conjunction with the Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2, introduced the ordinance with 17 co-sponsors.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of Emergency Medical Service workers receiving treatment for injuries resulting from work-related violence has been on the rise since 2017. If passed, this ordinance would make the assault of an Emergency Service Provider punishable by one to three years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. Since many of these acts of violence occur inside ambulances, the ordinance also requires a placard be placed inside the vehicles notifying people of the penalties associated with acts of violence against EMS workers.

“The hard-working men and women of the Chicago Fire Department do an incredibly dangerous job,” O’Shea said in an e-blast to residents. “It is our responsibility to take any all steps possible to keep them safe.”

Aldermen are also asking the city to track and document all acts of violence against first responders,” O’Shea said in an e-blast to residents. “It is critical that the City Council take any steps possible to show support for EMS workers and all our first responders.”

The 17 co-sponsors will work to garner more support for the measure before a hearing before the public safety committee.