House Bill No. by Representative Carver amends the definition of "first responder" to include public works employees, recognizing them as essential emergency response personnel during declared emergencies or disasters. The bill specifically defines "public works first responder" as a state, parish, or municipal employee whose primary duties involve public infrastructure operations, maintenance, or repair, and who is required to perform emergency response functions. This inclusion aims to integrate public works employees into state and local emergency preparedness, response, and recovery operations.

Additionally, the bill outlines the limitations of this designation, clarifying that it does not alter eligibility for retirement systems or benefits, create presumptions related to workers' compensation, or mandate additional compensation. It also emphasizes that public works first responders will only be recognized as such during weather emergencies declared by the governor. Furthermore, the bill allows for public works first responders to participate in emergency preparedness training and planning activities coordinated by the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, subject to available resources.

Statutes affected:
HB455 Original: 23:1(6)