AUGUSTA - The Maine House voted overwhelmingly Monday to advance a measure to identify ways lawmakers can support Maine's emergency medical services. The vote was 114-18.
LD 1988, sponsored by Assistant House Majority Leader Rachel Talbot Ross, D-Portland, would create the Blue Ribbon Commission To Study Emergency Medical Services in the State. The commission would be charged with examining and making recommendations on the support of and delivery of emergency medical services, or EMS. The measure also clarifies in statute that EMS is considered an essential service by the state.
"Maine's emergency medical service providers have faced unprecedented challenges over the past two years, but the truth is the system has been increasingly strained for years before the pandemic," said Talbot Ross. "This bill is a recognition of the fundamental role that EMS plays in our public safety and health care delivery systems. It is also a clear message: We hear you. Our EMS workers have told us again and again that we are on an unsustainable path and that policymakers have not acted. I believe it is time we hear them and act."
The blue ribbon commission created by the measure would include representatives of both professional and volunteer EMS organizations, public and private ambulance services, local government officials, state policymakers and other stakeholders. The commission would be required to report back to lawmakers with its findings and recommendations, including suggested legislation, by Dec. 7, 2022.
"This bill acknowledges just how integral emergency medical services are to the functioning of every part of our society," said Rep. Sue Salisbury, D-Westbrook, a cosponsor who worked closely with Talbot Ross to develop the measure. It's past time we seriously address the unacceptable realities of the EMS workforce shortages in Maine. LD 1988 is a critical step in the right direction."
The bill faces additional votes in the coming days.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Talbot Ross, Salisbury], c. 812-1111