INDIANAPOLIS – A new medal of honor has been designated for Indiana first responders.

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb signed House Enrolled Act 1142 into law honoring first responders for their service and sacrifice.

The Indiana General Assembly states the First Responder Medal of Honor is for eligible Hoosier first responders who distinguish, "...themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of the Indiana first responder's life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an act of public service."

Those eligible for this honor include law enforcement officers, firefighters, both career and volunteer, correction officers, paramedics, and emergency medical responders.

Indiana's Department of Homeland Security will be charged with developing the criteria, administering the application process and receiving nominations.

The governor of Indiana may award the medal to the Indiana first responder or the Indiana first responder's next of kin at a public ceremony if they are killed during the act of public service.