** Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service upping city deficit
** New legislation in Delaware protects rights of first responders
CANADA NEWS
** Winnipeg’s Fire Paramedic Service is apparently helping to push the city budget into the red. That is the word from Global News (Lara Schroeder/September 9) which said the organization has spent an additional $3.4 million beyond its means. According to the newspaper, lower than projected EMS revenue is playing a role in the problem. High overtime and unexpectedly high salary and benefits are also contributing. Other departments straining city coffers include the police service and snow clearing. A city spokesman said efforts are being made to dip overtime without impacting public safety.
UNITED STATES NEWS
** Delaware has enacted two new laws aimed at protecting first responders from discrimination. WDDE 91.1 FM (Karl Magiero/September 6) said the Volunteer Emergency Responders Job Protection Act protects emergency practitioners from censure by the employer for an injury acquired on a call that entails a work absence. A second piece of legislation, House Bill 22, prevents employers from firing or refusing to hire volunteer responders. Governor Markell signed the statutes into law Friday.
