Gov. Wolf Signs EMS Relief Bill Into Law

PENNSYLVANIA — Gov. Tom Wolf has signed into law a bill that will allocate millions toward the state's emergency healthcare workers strained past capacity in their response to the pandemic.

Senate Bill 739 appropriates $25 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to specifically support emergency management services (EMS) companies around the state.

“It is no secret that our health care workers and emergency responders have shouldered great burdens throughout the pandemic,” the governor said in a statement. “They rightfully deserve this support after the care and support they have provided our loved ones and neighbors."

The bill also implements into law the EMS question on primary ballots that was passed by voters. That initiative allows municipal and paid fire and EMS companies to participate in the state's Emergency Services Loan Assistance Program. That program was historically restricted to only volunteer companies.

The bill received unanimous support from both parties in the state Senate, passing 49-0. It's the latest in a string of budget moves at the state level to support healthcare workers overworked amid the pandemic and recent spike in hospitalizations.

Within the past several weeks, the state has granted $225 million to healthcare workers to both improve funding for services and to offer loan forgiveness to nurses.

The governor added that these bills are a start, but they aren't enough.

"Sadly, we know they aren’t the only Pennsylvanians suffering," he added. I, again, call on members of the General Assembly to continue appropriating necessary funds to deserving Pennsylvanians like our seniors, families with small children, small businesses."