In the days leading up to National First Responders Day, Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) visited police officers, firefighters, and EMTs in Creston, Osceola, and Johnston. The visits aimed to thank first responders for their service during the ongoing government shutdown and discuss legislative efforts related to their work.
During his stops in Creston and Osceola, Rep. Nunn listened to concerns about how the government shutdown is affecting access to federal grants that support staffing, training, and equipment upgrades for rural departments. He also provided updates on his More Funding for COPS Act. This bipartisan bill seeks to double federal funding for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program with the goal of helping rural law enforcement agencies address increasing public safety demands.
“Meeting with Iowa’s first responders was a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to show up every day and protect our communities,” said Rep. Nunn. “These men and women don’t stop serving because Washington is gridlocked, and they deserve our full support, especially during a shutdown.”
On Monday, Rep. Nunn visited the Johnston Fire Department where he thanked Chief Percy Coleman and staff by bringing coffee and donuts as a gesture of appreciation. During this visit, he discussed how the shutdown has impacted department operations and expressed his backing for the PFAS Alternatives Act—a bipartisan proposal that would fund research into PFAS-free protective gear designed to reduce firefighters’ exposure to toxic chemicals.
“It was great to bring coffee and donuts to the Johnston crew,” continued Rep. Nunn. “Iowa’s first responders show up every day to keep our communities safe, and they deserve to know their work doesn’t go unnoticed.”
National First Responders Day is observed annually on October 28 as a way of honoring police officers, firefighters, and EMTs nationwide for their service.
Rep. Nunn’s recent visits highlight his commitment to ensuring that Iowa’s first responders—particularly those in rural areas—have adequate resources and support needed for their roles.
