The proposed bill aims to establish the "Emergency Medical Services Needs-Based Assessment and Funding Act" in West Virginia, which will require the Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive needs-based assessment of emergency medical services (EMS) every two years. This assessment will evaluate various factors such as call volume, response times, availability of resources, and financial stability to determine the funding needs of EMS agencies. The bill emphasizes the importance of equitable funding distribution based on need rather than equal allocation, addressing disparities that have led to resource shortages in high-need areas.

Additionally, the bill outlines a process for implementing the needs-based assessment, including collaboration with local EMS agencies and the establishment of a funding distribution formula based on assessment findings. It mandates the department to report to the Legislature every two years on assessment results, funding allocations, and recommendations for improvements. The bill also authorizes the department to propose legislative rules for its implementation and establishes an effective date upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-4G-1, 16-4G-2, 16-4G-3, 16-4G-4, 16-4G-5, 16-4G-6, 16-4G-7, 16-4G-8
Committee Substitute: 16-4G-1, 16-4G-2, 16-4G-3, 16-4G-4, 16-4G-5, 16-4G-6, 16-4G-7, 16-4G-8