IAEP Celebrates Passage of Pro-EMS Bill in Connecticut

Director Petit testified in support of HB 7053 in February.

The IAEP is pleased to report that HB 7053, a bill aiming to establish a “first responder” and “essential worker” working group in Connecticut, passed through the state’s legislature last week. 

IAEP members across the state were overwhelmingly supportive of HB-7053 and the encouraging, ongoing dialogue around EMS in the state legislature. HB-7053 proves that Connecticut lawmakers are willing to consider the provider-level perspective when establishing opportunities for real change in state EMS, a consideration that will improve outcomes for both patients and EMS professionals. 

IAEP National Director Phil Petit testified in person to the Connecticut legislature in support of the bill, and members of the IAEP lobbying team worked with the Connecticut Public Safety and Security Committee Chair to help move the bill in the right direction.

“The legislation is designed to eliminate the ambiguity of who is a first responder and what that status means under Connecticut law,” said Petit.  “The IAEP was proud to support an effort that would allow us to include critical pieces of the EMS infrastructure like Communication and Dispatch Professionals.  The next step for us is to stay active as the committee is formed and support their work in any way possible.  It’s our goal to remain directly involved.”