EMS Funding Bill on Senate Agenda

First responders and other health care advocates will be keeping a close eye on the Senate today as legislators discuss an important funding measure.

The bill contains funding for vital programs including Rural and Community AED, EMS for Children grant program and block grants that provide money for states to pay for various EMS-related activities.

"It's important that the Senate pass it with a veto-proof margin which is two-thirds majority," said Lisa Meyer, vice-present of Cornerstone Government Affairs, a lobbying group for EMS.

Meyer told EMS providers in Orlando last week that the House made its version veto-proof. The Senate must now do the same thing to protect the funds.

"The President has threatened to veto any bill that is over his budget proposal," she said, adding that EMS-related budget items always face tough scrutiny.

Meyer encourages people to contact their legislators to vote for the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education bill.

"They will be debating the bill on the floor, possibly for the balance of the week," she said, adding that many groups will be working to educate legislators about the issues.

Also, Meyer said Advocates for EMS has requested that language be included in the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Report that no less than 10 percent of first responder grant funding go to EMS.

Educating staff members about EMS issues is continuing, and Meyer said she believes the effort is important.

The president of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) said he believes there have been improvements.

"For the first time, we're being invited to sit down at the table. We're being recognized as a player," said Jerry Johnston. "I think this is just the beginning."