AUSTIN, Texas - First responders in Travis County can expect to see some upgrades.

New funding means those first on scene will have access to bulletproof vests.

The backstory:

Austin firefighters and paramedics will soon have their hands on some new hardware.

The bulletproof vests are designed to add an extra layer of security when they need it the most.

"We tend to focus on what the need is and whatever the need is, we do our best to try to help fund those needs," says Pam Madere, the Chair of the Central Texas Public Safety Commission.

For the past nine months, the Central Texas Public Safety Commission has been working to secure funds from private individuals and corporate donors to make the ballistic vests a reality.

Since its creation over 20 years ago, the nonprofit has had

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