EMS News Briefs from Mike McEvoy

By EMS Coordinator Mike McEvoy, Ph.D., NRP, RN, CCRN
NYSAFC EMS Committee

EMS Assault Upgraded to Felony

On November 20, 2015, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation upgrading assault on an EMT or paramedic to a Class D felony. The law takes effect February 18, 2016. Read the text of the bill here. In 2015, there were over 75 serious assaults on EMS workers reported in New York state.

EMS Authorized to Transport Police K9s

Effective immediately, General Municipal Law has been amended authorizing EMTs and paramedics to transport police work dogs injured in the line of duty to a veterinary clinic or other emergency facility. Previously, DOH restrictions have prohibited such transports. The text of the new legislation can be viewed here.