Commissioner Stewart recounts testimony opposing mutual-aid bill changes, urges better pay and staffing for EMS

Commissioner Stewart told the Cheshire County board on March 12 that she recently testified at a legislative hearing regarding a bill related to mutual aid and EMS staffing. Stewart said she pushed back on testimony that would allow single-EMT ambulance responses or otherwise reduce in-vehicle medical staffing.

Stewart argued that reducing trained medical staff in ambulances risks patient outcomes. She described a personal example: in a critical call involving a chest-pain patient, multiple responders and advanced care were required, and she said such situations show why more than one trained medical responder is essential. Stewart also recounted that at the legislative hearing she pressed witnesses who argued staffing limits or temporary COVID-era changes were acceptable, and she said the county must prioritize quality emergency care.

Stewart told colleagues the underlying issue is staffing and compensation: she urged higher pay to attract and retain EMTs and paramedics, noting competition from private-sector jobs that pay similar or better rates without the same responsibilities. She said mutual-aid policy decisions should not substitute for adequate pay and staffing. Several commissioners agreed with Stewart’s concerns and discussed the policy trade-offs, liability and local expectations for EMS standards.

The commissioners did not adopt a formal position at the meeting but noted plans to continue engagement with the delegation and legislative contacts. Commissioner Stewart said she would remain involved in legislative conversations and advocacy on staffing and mutual-aid policy.