Pro Bono: ‘Guns-at-Work’ Laws Raise Legal Issues for EMS Agencies

The Virginia state senate has passed a bill that would allow EMS personnel and firefighters to carry concealed weapons in the course of their duties, provided they’re approved to do so by their EMS or fire chief. The bill would also require an EMS agency or fire department to put in place a written policy regarding “best practices in carrying a concealed handgun.” JEMS: Bill to Arm Firefighters, Medics Passes in Virginia Senate The proposed legislation—Senate Bill 1012—passed the senate by a small margin and heads to the Virginia House of Delegates where it’s expected to be defeated, likely also by a slim margin. But regardless of the chances of SB 1012 becoming law in Virginia, judging by the passionate reactions on social media and elsewhere the issue of arming EMS responders continues as a topic of conversation nationally in the EMS profession. It’s important to note that the proposed Virginia legislation would not grant an automatic legal right for EMS providers and firefighters to carry concealed weapons. That would depend upon approval by the EMS chief or fire chief of the agency for which the responder works. In essence, the Virginia legislation would transfer the responsibility for decision-making on carrying firearms and “best practices” policies to individual EMS agencies. Agencies in All States Should Address This means EMS agencies in Virginia—and indeed in all states—should consider the best way to address the issue of carrying firearms...
Source: JEMS Administration and Leadership - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: Top Story Exclusive Articles Administration and Leadership Operations Source Type: news