Michael Gay
I loved school house rock when I was a kid. Especially “I’m Just a Bill.” This week we watched SB216 make this journey through the Alabama State Legislature. SB216 allows retired fire paramedics on RSA retirement to come back and work part-time. This is similar to the way retired police officers can be school resource officers. Paramedics are in short supply and we all can agree we want one available if there is a lifesaving emergency. SB216 started its journey last year when Millbrook Fire Chief Larry Brown spoke to the Milbrook City Council about the problem. Councilman Chris Bath and I arranged a meeting with Alabama League of Municipalities to discuss the issue. They helped us arrange a meeting with the Retirement Systems of Alabama to learn more about what needs to be done. This led us to our legislative heroes, State Senator Clyde Chambliss and State Representative Jerry Starnes.
“Clyde wrote a bill to allow these experienced retired paramedics the opportunity to share their life saving skills. Our representatives worked together to get the bill passed. This law will benefit the entire state. It will help save lives. It will help fire departments insure there are paramedics on ambulances. I want to thank Chief Brown for bringing the problem to our attention. I also want to thank the Alabama League of Municipalities for their help and guidance. This includes the member cities. Our statewide connectivity is a tremendous resource! Thank you to Retirement Systems of Alabama for explaining the issue and the solution. Last, our legislative heroes! Senator Chambliss and Representative Starnes you worked tirelessly to get this passed. Millbrook has always been able to count on you and know we value your efforts! When we work together to solve problems, everyone wins!
To see the entire bill, visit Bill Text: AL SB216 | 2025 | Regular Session | Enrolled | LegiScan
