Ritchie’s "Mark’s Law" Gains Support

Additional Sponsors Sign-On to Measure to Protect First Responders,

Online Petition Grows to More Than 2,000 Signatures

State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced additional support for “Mark’s Law," her measure designed to put the full weight of the law behind emergency first responders and ensure just punishment for those who harm these heroes.

As of Friday, seven lawmakers have signed on to co-sponsor her bill, S.2130..  In addition,  an online petition where the public can show their support for Mark’s Law has reached more than 2,000 signatures.

“I am so pleased to have the backing of my colleagues who represent people from across the state as well as the support of thousands who have signed my Mark’s Law petition,” said Senator Ritchie.

“Our first responders have one of the most selfless jobs there is—putting their lives on the line to protect us from life threatening situations.  We owe it to these people, and their families to pass legislation that offers them the ultimate protection of the law.”

“Mark’s Law,” which is named for Mark Davis, the 25-year-old Cape Vincent EMT who was gunned down while responding to a call about a medical emergency, would provide the stiffest penalty allowed by law—life imprisonment without possibility of parole—for murder of a first responder.

It passed unanimously twice in the Senate last year.

Senator Ritchie is encouraging those supporting Mark’s Law to sign her online petition, which is available here.