State Legislator Receives 'Great Honor' From Firemen's Group

SEAFORD, NY — State Senator John Brooks has been recognized by the Firemen's Association for his support and assistance to volunteer fire departments by receiving the Golden Trumpet award.

Brooks, a longtime volunteer firefighter and former fire chief in Seaford, has advocated for several bills to help first responders:

He sponsored legislation that would directly protect New Yorkers against the threat of home fires. Brooks, along with Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski worked to make critical changes to the building code. Building owners would face a new penalty, making it safer for firefighters to enter during an incident. It was passed and signed by the governor.

Brooks has also been at the forefront of expanding the "Heart Bill," creating a presumption that a volunteer firefighter's death or disability due to a heart attack is related to his or her work in the field. The senator sought to include firefighters who suffered vascular ruptures.

"It is an honor to be recognized by a group of hardworking and selfless individuals who ensure the safety and wellbeing of the people of New York State," Brooks said in a statement. "The dedication of our state’s volunteers is inspiring, and I am thankful for this award. The opportunity to advocate on behalf of New York’s firefighters is a great honor."

The Golden Trumpet has been handed out 17 times since 1991.