TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The progress is gradual, however progress is occurring for Deputy Andy Lahera.
The progress comes as he recovers from a traumatic mind damage he suffered virtually two years in the past close to Lecanto, when he was hit by a automobile whereas directing site visitors for the sheriff’s workplace.
Current movies posted to Fb present the deputy is regaining some key capabilities, like lifting his left arm.
Michelle Lahera, his spouse, is by his aspect each day.
“He’s making an attempt, and he’s nonetheless combating,” she mentioned.
However restoration isn’t the one struggle. For 2 years, Michelle has been combating to verify her husband retains his healthcare protection.
Present state legislation solely ensures advantages to officers catastrophically injured throughout a chase, an emergency, or a prison act, not whereas directing site visitors.
Lahera Household
In February, Rep. Judson Sapp (R-Palatka) filed a invoice to fill that hole in state legislation.
“For this reason you run,” he mentioned. “If you happen to discover an injustice like this, and you’ve got a chance to repair it as an elected official, that’s what you do.”
The legislative effort has gotten overwhelming assist in Tallahassee. The invoice obtained a unanimous vote from the Florida Home of Representatives final Thursday. The Senate gave it a unanimous vote of assist on Monday.
Michelle was within the gallery each instances and obtained a standing ovation from lawmakers each instances. She’s since shared the excellent news together with her husband, who stays within the hospital.
“That’s what I used to be telling him,” she mentioned by way of tears. “That he’s making extra of a distinction than he even is aware of.”
For Michelle, the Andy Lahera Act is greater than Andy Lahera.
“I need to guarantee that nobody ever has to fret about their individual being taken care of,” she mentioned.
All of the invoice wants now’s the governor’s signature.
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