State office to file amendment suspending licensing requirement for fire departments amid pandemic

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The state Office of Emergency Medical Services announced Wednesday it plans to file an emergency amendment to temporarily suspend licensure requirements for certain fire departments.

The amendment would modify a legislative rule on requirements for emergency medical service agencies in order for the bodies to provide medical treatment.

Bill Crouch, secretary of the Department of Health and Human Resources, said fire departments are vital for the state’s coronavirus response.

“We are very dependent and thankful of our first responders throughout the state who keep us all safe and who are there for us in emergency situations,” he said. “We never want to impede their efforts to perform lifesaving procedures when they are needed.”

Once the State of Emergency on the coronavirus is lifted, departments will have 30 days to begin the licensure application process.

The state office plans to file the amendment on Thursday.





More News

News
One injured in Wood County helicopter crash
The person was taken to the hospital by a medical helicopter.
March 18, 2024 - 8:30 pm
News
Man charged in woman's death in Pocahontas County
Police said suspect and victim were "covered in blood."
March 18, 2024 - 8:15 pm
News
WVU officials work to help students recover following The Lofts blaze
Blaze occurred Friday morning.
March 18, 2024 - 8:06 pm
News
Person found dead in car at Beckley Elementary School parking lot
Beckley police are investigating.
March 18, 2024 - 7:05 pm