Senate Approves Robbins' Resolution Recognizing EMS Providers

Governor, Legislators Honor Those Who Responded to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita

Harrisburg – State Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) announced that the Senate adopted his resolution recognizing the work of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers in conjunction with a joint press conference with the Governor showing appreciation to EMS providers who assisted in the recovery from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

"Senate Resolution 284 helps to reaffirm the Commonwealth's appreciation for our EMS providers -- paramedics, emergency medical technicians, first responders, fire fighters, and police," said Sen. Robbins. "It is important that we, as citizens, take time to recognize the valuable role that EMS providers play in our lives. They save a countless number of lives each year in communities across the Commonwealth. They deserve our support, and gratitude."

In addition to recognizing EMS providers, the resolution designates the week of May 14th - 20th as "EMS Week" in Pennsylvania; designates May 14th as "Military EMS Personnel Day"; and designates May 20th as "EMS Personnel Day." This year's theme is "EMS, Serving on Health Care's First Line." More information on EMS Week may be found at the American College of Emergency Physicians' home page at www.acep.org/webportal/Advocacy/ems/week/default.htm

Senator Robbins also participated in a press conference with Governor Edward Rendell, Secretary of Health Calvin Johnson, and Senate and House colleagues, including Representative Teresa Forcier (R-6), sponsor of the House Resolution. The press conference honored the service of EMS providers who directly aided in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

"I would like to thank everyone, including members of the Meadville Area Ambulance Company, the Northwest PA EMS, and the Shenango Valley Area Ambulance Company, who made personal sacrifices and responded to one of our nation's most terrible natural disasters," said Robbins. "Without the help of approximately 250 Pennsylvania EMS providers, there's no telling how many more lives would have been lost to Katrina and Rita."

CONTACT:

Nate Silcox
(717) 787-1322