State lawmakers in New York are cheering the decision to allow active volunteer ambulance and emergency medical services members to participate in the New York State Health Insurance Program. 

But at the same time, they argue more support for EMS squads and members is needed in a finalized state budget plan next month. 

Sen. Shelley Mayer and Assemblyman Steve Otis had urged the state Department of Civil Service that volunteer ambulance and EMS groups should not have to be judged by the rule that 50% of a group's funding comes from government sources for employees to be eligible for the insurance program. 

The changed policy from the Department of Civil Service will extend eligibility for the program for the EMS groups, which have struggled with recruiting and retention in recent years. 

Otis and Mayer are still calling for further action, including the adoption of a measure meant to aid EMS organizations statewide in New York.

“We must build on this victory and continue to make policy changes to ensure our essential EMS workers can earn a living wage and receive the training and support to serve communities across New York," the lawmakers said. "The final budget must include stronger language to ensure these heroes receive the acknowledgment and resources they need to do these jobs.”

The bill would put in statute the eligibility of volunteer EMS squads to be included in the insurance program, make emergency medical providers working with volunteer groups eligible for the state pension system, label EMS services as essential and create a statewide training program. 

“In the budget process we are eager to negotiate an agreement to make the changes to create a sustainable EMS system in New York by elevating the essential nature of EMS services, make sure that EMS coverage is required, better funded and better able to retain staff," the lawmakers said in a joint statement. "These are the changes sought by the local officials and first responders we are working with.”