By Brad Segall

BENSALEM, Pa. (CBS) – President Obama has signed into law a defense spending bill that includes legislation that was sparked by the untimely death of a first responder in Bucks County.

Congressman Michael Fitzpatrick spent more than a year trying to get the measure through both chambers of the House.

The legislation was named for Danny McIntosh, a volunteer Bensalem paramedic who died in the line of duty more than two years ago chasing down a man who fled medical treatment.

Fitzpatrick says the bill closes a loophole that provided federal death benefits only for emergency personnel who worked for municipalities, not volunteers.

“The reason that this legislation was important is that it bears his name and makes certain that no other family like his will hear the words from the Department of Justice that we can’t help you,” says Fitzpatrick.

McIntosh was just 39-years-old when he died. He left behind his wife and two young daughters. The measure is retroactive so it will help the family.