Leaders from Virginia emergency medical services organizations asked Senate and House budget committees to retain language in the budget that prevents the Virginia Department of Health from changing geographic boundaries for regional EMS councils.

Steven Simon, executive director of the Western Virginia Mercy Medical Services Council, said the governor's proposed budget removes language that currently prevents the Board of Health from modifying EMS council service areas. Simon warned that striking that language would allow the department to eliminate EMS councils: “Striking this language allows the Virginia Department of Health to eliminate EMS councils, including Western Virginia EMS Council without safeguarding the well‑being of the citizens of the Commonwealth.” He urged an independent study by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC).

Jeff Grim, representing the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, said local providers rely on EMS councils for training, technical support and program solutions and asked legislators to leave council boundaries and funding intact. Grim said rural agencies depend on councils for proximity to providers and for local problem‑solving.

Witnesses said their opposition stems from concern that removing the protection would reduce locally tailored EMS support for rural localities. No formal vote was taken during the hearing; the remarks were submitted as public comment to inform budget deliberations.