EMS Memorial; Health Department shall design and construct to honor EMS personnel who died in line of duty.
Impact
This legislation represents a significant acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by EMS personnel, potentially fostering a greater public appreciation for the profession. By creating this memorial, the state aims to promote remembrance and respect for those serving in this critical role in public health and safety. The bill also outlines that the Department of Health will work in collaboration with relevant organizations to ensure the memorial's design reflects the significant contributions of EMS workers.
Summary
House Bill 995 aims to establish a memorial dedicated to honoring Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel in Mississippi who have lost their lives in the line of duty or made significant contributions to the EMS field. The bill mandates that the State Department of Health design, construct, and maintain this memorial, which is to be located on state-owned lands, specifically near the City of Jackson. The memorial is intended not only to commemorate fallen EMS personnel but also to recognize the invaluable impact that various individuals have made to emergency medical services within the state.
Contention
While HB 995 appears to be widely supported due to its honoring nature, potential points of contention may arise regarding the funding and management of the memorial. The bill allows for the formation of a private foundation or nonprofit corporation to maintain the memorial, which could lead to discussions about the accountability of these entities and their role in soliciting funds from public and private sources. Concerns might emerge regarding the memorial's location, design, and the criteria for who is recognized, which may spark debates among different stakeholders involved in the EMS community.