As the amendment primarily concerns technical language and does not alter any substantive regulatory frameworks, the overall impact on state laws is minimal. The bill aims to ensure consistency in how the Act is referenced within legislative and community contexts, thus facilitating clearer communication about the Act’s purpose and provisions. The specificity of the name update might help in enhancing public awareness regarding the importance of community emergency services.
Summary
House Bill 0498, introduced by Rep. Emanuel Chris Welch, seeks to amend the Community Emergency Services and Support Act. This bill primarily makes a technical modification related to the short title of the Act. The bill clarifies that the Act may be referred to as the Stephon Edward Watts Act, in addition to its existing title. This technical change does not introduce new provisions or significantly modify existing regulations associated with community emergency services and support.
Contention
Since the changes proposed by HB 0498 are of a technical nature, the discussions surrounding the bill have not focused on major points of contention. However, stakeholders involved in the original legislation of the Community Emergency Services and Support Act may express interest in how naming conventions can affect recognition and funding. Some may view any bill focusing on amendments, rather than substantive changes, as less impactful or urgent compared to comprehensive legislation that addresses fundamental issues in community emergency services.