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Florida police, firefighters, paramedics and other first responders would have an easier time becoming eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, and would get a better package of benefits under legislation signed into law earlier this month by Gov. Charlie Crist.

The legislation eases requirements for benefits related to occupational diseases, increases benefits for responders who have a mental or nervous injury and extends payment of total disability benefits to certain retirees. The measure (SB 746) was sponsored by Rep. Sandy Adams, R-Orlando and Sen. J.D. Alexander, R-Lake Wales.

“These brave men and woman protect their fellow Floridians and put their lives on the line day in and day out,” Crist said when he signed the bill at the Florida Professional Firefighters Conference. “Through this legislation, we have the opportunity to express in a tangible and meaningful way just how much we appreciate their service and sacrifice.”