Whereas, first responders are usually the first emergency medical services persons to arrive at the scene of an emergency in rural areas; and

Whereas, first responders currently do not carry bee sting kits; and

Whereas, first responders are not trained to administer epinephrine; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. Appropriation. The following funds are appropriated from the General Fund to carry out the purposes of this Act.

2001-02 2002-03

PUBLIC SAFETY, DEPARTMENT OF

Emergency Medical Services

All Other $15,535 $12,810

Provides funds to purchase bee sting kits for first responders and to provide the necessary training to administer epinephrine.

Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this Act takes effect when approved.

SUMMARY

This bill provides a General Fund appropriation of $15,535 in fiscal year 2001-02 and $12,810 in fiscal year 2002-03 for the Department of Public Safety to purchase bee sting kits for first responders and to provide the necessary training to administer epinephrine.