Conn. bill creates new civilian medal of honor

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A bill that would create a new civilian medal of honor is progressing through Connecticut's General Assembly.

Members of the legislature's Public Safety and Security Committee on Thursday voted to send the legislation to the floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Rep. Penny Bacchiochi (bah-kee-AH'-kee) said she was inspired to propose the bill after hearing about the heroic actions of civilians during the Dec. 14 shooting at Newtown's Sandy Hook Elementary School.

The Somers Republican's bill authorizes the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection commissioner to award the medal to a citizen, alive or dead, who performed a heroic deed that saved another person's life or protected people from serious injury.

The public would make nominations to the commissioner and a board.