Concerned about the effects of coming into contact with the coronavirus, unions representing firefighters, paramedics, nurses and hospital workers are asking lawmakers to act on their behalf. As workers on the front lines of the epidemic, the unions said they want assurances — perhaps requiring additional legislation — that their benefits won’t be exhausted if they contract COVID-19 or miss work because they’re under quarantine after coming into contact with people with coronavirus.
- PUB DATE: 3/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Twin Cities Pioneer Press

Fighting fires is no easy task. The work is often intense and physical. But that's not stopping about 10,000 women from joining their male counterparts on the front lines. Except, there is one big difference: their gear. With every zip, pull of a boot, and tug of a coat, the volunteer firefighters of Chaires and Capitola prepare themselves for the toughest of fires.
- PUB DATE: 3/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WCTV CBS 6 Thomasville

Ed Parkinson today was named by the FirstNet Authority Board as executive director—operationally, the chief executive officer (CEO)—for the FirstNet Authority, becoming the organization’s third full-time staff leader and its first in more than 17 months. FirstNet Authority Board Chair Ed Horowitz said that Parkinson was selected at the conclusion of a “comprehensive and thorough search” to lead the FirstNet Authority staff.
- PUB DATE: 3/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Urgent Communications

With Engine Company 11 set to be decommissioned on March 22, some residents and city councilors are still fighting to keep it running. At Thursday night’s City Council meeting, Councilor-at-large Brian Gomes submitted a petition to the council with 1,164 signatures in support of keeping Station 11 open.
- PUB DATE: 3/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Standard-TImes

The Department of Public Safety of Newark, N.J., is warning residents they could be prosecuted for falsely reporting coronavirus cases in the city. The city’s public safety director, Anthony Ambrose, cautioned Newark residents against posting false information about cases on social media, saying it can cause “unnecessary public alarm.
- PUB DATE: 3/13/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Hill