Southwest Allegheny News

HARRISBURG – Legislation to create a western Pennsylvania Urban Search and Rescue task force was approved unanimously by the Senate today, according to Sens. Devlin Robinson (R-37) and Jay Costa (D-43).

The bill, Senate Bill 792, aims to establish a western Pennsylvania-based Urban Search and Rescue task force to supplement Task Force One, which is currently located in the southeastern part of the commonwealth. Task Force One consists of a team of individuals comprising firefighters, engineers, medical professionals, canine handlers, and emergency managers, all of whom have specialized training and equipment to provide emergency response capabilities during disasters.

"With the size and population of the Pittsburgh region, it is necessary that the first responders in this area are properly supported and equipped to respond to disasters," said Senator Robinson. "Sen. Costa and I worked together to co-sponsor this important legislation to ensure our constituents and all Pennsylvania residents have the safety and protection they need and deserve."

Senator Costa expressed his delight at the passage of the bipartisan legislation, stating, "The people of Allegheny County and the western side of the commonwealth deserve the peace of mind that help is available when disasters strike. I look forward to getting this bill through the House of Representatives and ultimately to the governor's desk for his signature."

The bill now moves on to the House of Representatives for consideration.

For more information, please contact Allison Dutrey (Robinson) or Sav Thorpe (Costa).

Quotations:

- "With the size and population of the Pittsburgh region, it is necessary that the first responders in this area are properly supported and equipped to respond to disasters," said Robinson.

- "The people of Allegheny County and the western side of the commonwealth deserve the peace of mind that help is available when disasters strike," Costa said.