ME LD1599

Establishes a 26-member Maine Emergency Medical Services Commission to monitor and evaluate the state's EMS system on a continuing basis

Commission membership includes 6 legislators (3 Senate, 3 House with bipartisan requirements), the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, and representatives from hospitals, ambulance services, municipalities, counties, fire chiefs, and EMS providers from both rural and urban areas

Members receive legislative per diem and expenses; initial terms staggered at 1, 2, and 3 years with subsequent 3-year terms; commission must meet at least quarterly

Commission must submit annual report to the Governor and Legislature by January 1st assessing EMS resource needs, evaluating existing programs, and recommending improvements for recruitment and retention of paid and volunteer EMS personnel

Commission may adopt routine technical rules, conduct public hearings and workshops, seek outside funding, and submit proposed legislation to implement its recommendations