Gill Maintains Commitment to Passing the Daniel Capuano Memorial Act

CHICAGO – Moving into session this year, state Rep. Mary Gill, D-Chicago, plans on championing legislation that will support and protect the lives of first responders, the Daniel Capuano Memorial Act. 

“Ten years ago, our community faced a tragedy when firefighter Daniel Capuano died in the line of duty,” said Gill. “His death could have been avoided, but a commercial property owner cut corners and put him in a dangerous situation. That should have never happened, and we cannot allow it to happen again; that’s why I’m fighting for the Daniel Capuano Memorial Act.”

The Daniel Capuano Memorial Act would create the offense of first responder endangerment. This offense would be committed anytime an individual creates a dangerous condition on their commercial property and intentionally conceals it, leading to a first responder being injured or killed. 

This legislation would help prevent first responders from being put in dangerous situations that could have been avoided. Commercial property owners will be held accountable, and they could face a felony if they fail to disclose information that their property is not up to code. The Act will ensure that first responders have the necessary information to respond to a crisis accordingly while ensuring their own safety. 

“Daniel Capuano’s legacy continues to live on,” said Gill. “Whether it’s through this act, or his son, who has decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a firefighter. We have the opportunity to make a difference, here and now, by providing first responders with additional support, as they navigate dangerous situations. What happened to Daniel Capuano does not have to happen again, and that’s why I’m going to do everything I can to get this bill passed.”

For more information, please contact repmarygill@gmail.com.