Virginia House Bill HB1259

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

Emergency medical services personnel; career fatigue and wellness program, report.

Impact

Upon implementation, this bill is expected to improve the support systems available for emergency medical services personnel by recognizing the challenges they face. By creating programs focused on career fatigue and wellness, HB1259 aims to enhance job satisfaction and retention rates among emergency service workers. This initiative could also contribute to better overall public health outcomes by ensuring that these vital professionals are functioning at their best. The findings and recommendations from the work group are required to be reported to key legislative committees, indicating a strong legislative interest in following the bill's progress and impact.

Summary

House Bill 1259 mandates the establishment of a work group by the Department of Health to study the establishment or contractual arrangement for a professional program that addresses career fatigue and wellness among emergency medical services personnel, both professional and volunteer. The bill specifically addresses the increasing concerns about the mental and physical toll that emergency services work inflicts on those involved in the field. The work group is tasked with identifying the necessary components and estimated costs for such a program and will include representatives from relevant stakeholders, including the Medical Society of Virginia.

Contention

While the bill has received support for addressing the important issue of wellness among emergency service personnel, some stakeholders may express concerns regarding funding and resource allocation. Questions could arise about the adequacy of the proposed work group's recommendations and whether the state will be prepared to implement and financial support those recommendations effectively. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the perceived sufficiency of existing programs addressing similar issues, leading to debates about the necessity and efficiency of creating new systems.

Voting_history

As evidence is not provided for any voting history in the source documents, further examination of legislative archives may be required to obtain that information.