Prohibiting discharge of volunteer firefighters or volunteer emergency medical technicians from other employment.
The bill introduces a new section to the state's regulations concerning workplace discrimination and job protection for volunteer emergency responders. It requires that any employee who faces termination or disciplinary action because they responded to an emergency is entitled to reinstatement and compensation for lost pay and benefits. This change strengthens protections for volunteer firefighters and EMTs, acknowledging their critical role in public service and the need for their employment security during emergency situations.
House Bill 182 (HB182) aims to protect the employment rights of volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in New Hampshire. Specifically, the bill prohibits employers from discharging or disciplining employees who miss work due to their response to emergencies in their roles as volunteers. This legislation addresses concerns that individuals serving their communities in emergency roles should not face job loss or reprimands due to their commitments to public safety and emergency responses.
Notably, discussions around HB182 reflected concerns regarding its implications for employer-employee relationships. Although intended to safeguard volunteer workers, opponents may argue it could impose additional burdens on employers and complicate workplace policies. Critics might express concern regarding the potential for misinterpretation of emergency calls or the need for accurate reporting, particularly as volunteer responders often serve in unpredictable circumstances that occur outside regular hours.
According to the fiscal note associated with the bill, the financial implications include indeterminable increases in expenditures related to enforcement and potential litigation, while state departments do not anticipate significant changes in operational costs. However, it indicates that municipalities may need to adapt to the new requirements and account for the volunteer duties of their employees, which could result in additional administrative responsibilities.