2023 WCCA Fall Meeting: Health, Safety, and Social Services Committee Meeting

WCCA Health, Safety, and Social Services Committee

Fall 2023

Ramkota Hotel

Casper, Wyoming

The meeting was called to order by Chairman Elaine Griffith.

Commissioner Macker moved to approve the minutes from the May 24th meeting in Douglas,WY. Commissioner Devish seconded the motion. All voted in favor; motion passed.

The first topic of discussion was presented by Shad Cooper of the Wyoming Fire Board. Shad presented bills before the state Legislature for their consideration. The bills are: Firefighters recruitment film, Rehiring retired firefighters, State employee leave for volunteer firefighters, and Insurance for volunteer fighters. Shad stated he believes these bills will address the number of shortages around the state while also helping with retention.

Jen Davis, Senior Policy Advisor for Governor Gordon, spoke about the ongoing work of the

EMS workgroup. The group has asked for five million dollars to help with the hiring of regional coordinators and to assist with the implementation of plans for rural EMS service.

WCCA ED Jerimiah Rieman talked about the discussion of a Statewide or Regional Forensic Pathologist. He discussed the national shortage and how it is affecting Wyoming. The discussion has attempted to address a model that would work around the state. Should pathologists be spread around the state or be in a central location. He also discussed how some counties are currently operating in regards to pathologists.