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Committee restores legislative protection for first responders after Supreme Court ruling
Summary
Lawmakers unanimously approved a bill clarifying that firefighters, EMTs and paramedics retain governmental immunity while providing emergency medical services, citing a recent Supreme Court decision that sponsors said created legal uncertainty.
Representative Casey Snyder opened remarks by describing a recent Supreme Court decision that, in his view, removed long‑understood immunity protections for firefighters and other emergency responders. Snyder said the intent of the 1980s statute and legislative debates was to cover first responders who act within the scope of their duties, and the bill clarifies that legislative intent.
Multiple public safety organizations and chiefs voiced support. Draper City Fire Chief Clint Smith, representing the Utah State Fire Chiefs Association, said the ruling exposed members to litigation risks for decisions made while helping people in urgent situations. Ted Roe, president of the Professional Firefighters of Utah and a Salt Lake City firefighter, voiced support; Jared Taney, legal director for the League of Cities and Towns, said the Supreme Court ‘‘got it dead wrong’’ and urged approval.
Representative McPherson moved to favorably recommend the government immunity amendments. The committee held a voice vote and the motion passed unanimously. Sponsors said the change clarifies statutory intent and returns the state to longstanding practice that protects emergency responders acting in good faith within their training and authority.
