GOVERNOR'S VETO

Pursuant to § 6 of Article V of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto Senate Bill 857.

I support the general purpose of this bill as well as that of House Bill 601 and House Bill 2434, which is to increase funding for Emergency Medical Services throughout the Commonwealth. However, I cannot support taxing Virginia drivers an additional $5.5 million per year by increasing the registration fee for motor vehicles. At a time when we are reducing citizens' personal property tax on vehicles, it would be inappropriate for me to support an increase in vehicle registration fees, a form of motor vehicle taxation.

Before asking Virginians to accept a tax increase, I believe the more prudent course is to develop consensus on the goals for emergency medical services, to determine needs according to those goals, and to explore possible permanent funding sources to meet those goals. The State Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Advisory Board has established a Task Force that is examining how best to address the priorities for emergency medical service set out in Virginia Code § 32.1-111.3. This Code section requires the Commonwealth to develop a comprehensive and effective emergency medical services system, and sets out twelve priorities for that system. By examining how to address these priorities, we can ensure that funding is directed according to priority needs.

I look forward to working with the dedicated professional men and women, as well as those who volunteer in emergency medical services, to ensure that they will continue to be well-trained and well-equipped. I urge all involved in the emergency medical services community to present their views and ideas to the Advisory Board, and to work with its Task Force to allow us to set a wise and prudent course for emergency medical services as we enter the new millenium.

GOVERNOR'S RECOMMENDATION

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2. That the provisions of this act shall not become effective unless reenacted by the 2000 Session of the General Assembly.

3. That the Virginia Department of Health, through its Office of Emergency Medical Services, in consultation with the State Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board and other appropriate agencies, shall conduct an analysis of the current funding structure for emergency medical services in the Commonwealth and evaluate alternatives, including a permanent revenue source with an automatic growth factor. The evaluation shall examine priorities for providing emergency medical service, existing statutory requirements, and how to address both priorities and statutory requirements. The Department shall report its findings to the Governor and the General Assembly by October 1, 2000.