The bill is expected to enhance the state's capability to mobilize volunteers in response to various public health emergencies, such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters. By creating a structured system, it aims to ensure that volunteer responders are adequately prepared and credentialed to act when local or regional healthcare resources are stretched thin. Additionally, the inclusion of training and credentialing processes aims to elevate the quality of response services provided by these volunteers, which could be significant during critical health incidents.
Summary
House Bill 2279, titled 'An Act relative to public health volunteer responders', aims to establish a registry of volunteer personnel who are available to provide health, medical, and related services in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This proposed legislation mandates the Department of Public Health to create and manage the volunteer registry, which would include criteria for membership, such as verification of licensure and completion of training. The bill seeks to streamline the process of identifying and credentialing volunteers in the registry, ensuring they can effectively contribute during times of public health emergencies.
Contention
While the bill outlines an organized approach to utilizing volunteer responders, it may also raise concerns regarding the adequacy of training and the potential legal implications for individuals volunteering in emergency situations. Specifically, the bill proposes that activated volunteers be treated as state employees for certain legal protections and benefits, including compensation for injuries or fatalities incurred while fulfilling their duties. Opponents may argue about the burdens and responsibilities placed on local health authorities and the state in managing this registry and training volunteers effectively.
In volunteer firefighters, repealing provisions relating to employment sanctions; and providing for volunteer emergency responders employer tax credit.