New Yorkers owe a tremendous debt to our first responders. When disaster strikes, they are the ones who run toward danger. They keep our communities safe, respond to emergencies and frequently put their own health and well-being on the line in service to others.

First responders often retire relatively young after spending decades working physically demanding jobs that take a toll on their bodies. They can also face long-term health consequences. Here in New York, we know this all too well. Many firefighters and other first responders who answered the call on September 11 continue to battle serious illnesses more than two decades later.

Retirement does not always mean the challenges are over.

Retired first responders commonly seek second careers, start businesses or pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. However, they often find themselves competing in the marketplace without the same support systems available to other groups that have made extraordinary sacrifices.

One successful model already exists.

New York’s Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB) program helps businesses owned by service-disabled veterans compete for state contracts. State agencies are encouraged to direct a portion of procurement spending toward certified SDVOB firms. The program has helped create opportunities for veterans who sacrificed for our country while strengthening small businesses across New York.

It is a commonsense concept that recognizes service and creates economic opportunity.

Organizations such as Invest in First Responders have proposed creating a similar certification program for retired first responders. Under such a program, eligible businesses owned by retired police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other first responders could receive assistance competing for state contracts, much like SDVOB-certified firms do today.

This would not be a handout. It would be an investment.

The state already spends billions of dollars annually on goods and services. Creating procurement goals for retired first responder-owned businesses would help direct some of that spending toward men and women who have already dedicated their careers to public service. It would also encourage entrepreneurship, strengthen local economies and help retired first responders build financial security for themselves and their families.

Most importantly, it would send a message that New York values service not just during a career, but after it as well.

A retired first responder business certification is an idea I wholeheartedly support. Supporting first responders should not end on the day they retire. We should continue looking for innovative ways to honor their contributions and create opportunities for success.