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.