As we move into July and the height of summer storm season, it’s more important than ever to show our appreciation for North America’s lineworkers.

When storms and natural disasters strike, these essential workers answer the call — traveling long distances and working under dangerous conditions to restore power safely and swiftly. From coast to coast, they consistently demonstrate a deep commitment to their communities, responding to tornadoes, wildfires, hurricanes and ice storms with courage and resolve.

We saw this dedication firsthand last year when hundreds of IBEW lineworkers from across the continent deployed to the Southeast in the aftermath of hurricanes Helene and Milton. They worked around the clock in devastated communities, playing a critical role in helping those areas recover from some of the most destructive storms in recent memory.

Every July 10, the IBEW and our utility partners recognize National Lineworker Appreciation Day, a time to honor the hardworking men and women who keep our electrical systems running. The date also marks the anniversary of the death of Henry Miller, the IBEW’s founder and first president, who died 129 years ago while restoring power to a Washington, D.C., neighborhood.

This year, we’re proud to stand alongside a bipartisan group of members of Congress who have introduced a resolution to formally recognize July 10 as Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day. At a time when few issues unite lawmakers, honoring our lineworkers is a cause everyone can — and should — support, and I encourage everyone reading this in the U.S. to contact their member of Congress and ask for their vote.

Recognition, however, is only part of what our lineworkers deserve. Elected officials must also take action to ensure that they have the support and protections needed to do their jobs safely.

Texas lawmakers recently set a strong example. In May, both chambers of the Texas Legislature passed a bill increasing penalties for assaulting or harassing utility workers on the job. The bill, designed to better protect lineworkers in the field, was awaiting Gov. Greg Abbott’s signature as of this writing.

The IBEW has proudly represented utility workers since the dawn of the industry, and we continue to show pride in their service and commitment to keeping the lights on, even in the toughest conditions.

Through wind, rain, heat and cold, they are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week to keep the power running to our homes, schools and businesses.

As summer storms grow more intense and frequent, our reliance on the skill, sacrifice and resilience of lineworkers will only deepen. Let’s do more than thank them — let’s stand behind them with the protections and policies they deserve.