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Subcommittee reports bill to allow firefighters and EMS to collectively bargain
Summary
HB 2,495, sponsored by Delegate Askew and narrowly drafted for firefighters and EMS personnel, was reported by the subcommittee 5–2 after proponents said collective bargaining improves safety, retention and readiness; one online commenter opposed.
Delegate C. Askew introduced House Bill 2,495 on Feb. 12, 2025, proposing narrow collective-bargaining rights for firefighters and emergency medical services personnel.
Askew told the House Labor and Commerce Subcommittee that firefighters and EMS face dangerous work and lack federal or state protections for collective bargaining that could help address staffing shortages, procurement of personal protective equipment and operational readiness. She said collaboration between employees and employers in other states has been associated with lower death rates, better working conditions and improved recruitment and retention.
Jennifer Pike of the Virginia Professional Firefighters testified in support and described the bill as narrowly drafted for firefighters and EMS personnel to enter collective bargaining with localities. Doris Kraus Mays of the Virginia AFL-CIO also supported the bill. One online commenter (Miss Howard) opposed public-sector collective bargaining, arguing elected officials should remain solely accountable to voters.
Committee procedure required a motion to report; members moved and seconded the motion. The subcommittee voted 5–2 to report HB 2,495.
Action: HB 2,495 was reported by the subcommittee by a 5–2 vote. The committee record indicates the bill was forwarded to the next stage for consideration.
