Provides for a hazardous pay differential for certain emergency medical technicians who are providing emergency medical services, and their supervisors, during outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Summary
Bill S04261 proposes an amendment to the general municipal law to establish a hazardous pay differential for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and their supervisors in New York City during outbreaks of infectious diseases. Specifically, the bill stipulates that these employees will receive an additional ten percent on top of their regular pay when providing emergency medical services during declared public health emergencies. The hazardous pay is intended to recognize the increased risks faced by these workers in such situations.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would create a new compensation structure for EMTs and their supervisors in New York City, specifically during periods of declared infectious disease outbreaks. It would ensure that the hazardous pay is considered part of the employee's salary for pension and retirement calculations, although it would not affect salary increments based on length of service. This amendment would directly impact the financial compensation of emergency medical personnel, potentially improving retention and recruitment in these critical roles.
Sentiment
The sentiment around Bill S04261 appears to be supportive, particularly among healthcare advocates and labor representatives who emphasize the need for fair compensation for frontline workers during health crises. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for the city and how it will manage the additional costs associated with this pay differential.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from budgetary concerns, particularly from fiscal conservatives who may argue against the increased costs associated with the hazardous pay differential. Additionally, there may be discussions about the criteria for what constitutes an 'outbreak' and whether the definitions provided are sufficiently clear to avoid confusion during implementation.
Same As
Provides for a hazardous pay differential for certain emergency medical technicians who are providing emergency medical services, and their supervisors, during outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Provides for a hazardous pay differential for certain emergency medical technicians who are providing emergency medical services, and their supervisors, during outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Amends the definition of infectious diseases to include the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and would include emergency medical technicians eligible for benefits.
In emergency medical services system, further providing for emergency medical responders, for emergency medical technicians, for emergency medical services vehicle operators and for advanced life support ambulances.
Provides for benefits for certain emergency medical technicians or advanced emergency medical technicians in the city of New York who suffer any condition or impairment of health caused by a stroke resulting in disability or death.
Requires all certified first responders, emergency medical technicians, and advanced emergency medical technicians to undergo criminal background checks to maintain their certification.
Relates to the optional retirement of members employed as an emergency medical technician, critical care technician, advanced emergency medical technician, paramedic or supervisor