SUMMARY:
Oregon GEMT utilizes a funding method referred to as an Intergovernmental Transfer (IGT) to get reimbursed by the federal government. The federal government has indicated that it may discontinue allowing IGT programs. HB 4156 is designed to allow OHA to utilize other reimbursement methods so GEMT can continue uninterrupted should IGT’s no longer be allowed by the federal government.

 

BACKGROUND:
When the Oregon Legislature voted to create the GEMT program in Oregon, the bill included language specifying the use of an IGT funding mechanism.. Language also stated, “General Fund monies may not be used to implement” the GEMT program. This funding mechanism has worked for the state, however, there have been indications that the federal government may stop accepting IGT programs. Should IGT programs no longer be accepted by the federal government, Oregon’s program would no longer function. Several months ago, Representative Smith reached out to the fire service and offered a bill to address any funding issues he may be able to help with. We are grateful for Representative Smith’s offer and decided the most valuable and realistic thing we could do would be to ensure GEMT funds continue into the future.

 

The changes being proposed would allow additional funding models, including but not limited to certified public expenditures (CPE’s). Utilizing CPE programs, the state would not be required to expend funds, however, they would need to certify funds. This means that the restrictive language that “General Funds monies may not be used” restricts this ability. Our solution is to simply add to this restriction, “except as necessary to certify an expenditure as eligible for federal financial participation.” To be clear, the intent of this bill is NOT to SPEND any state funds on the program. Furthermore, unless it becomes necessary, there is not a desire to move away from the IGT method. Last year, Oregon received over eighteen million dollars ($18 million) through the GEMT program. We are simply seeking an alternative method that Oregon can pivot to if needed - ensuring Oregon fire agencies don’t lose out on millions of dollars of federal reimbursement.

 

We have received positive feedback from members of the legislature. However, there are several private providers who are in opposition to this bill. We expect that some of these providers will testify in opposition to the bill.

 

WHAT ARE WE DOING:
Your legislative team has been working to ensure the bill aligns with our intent. We are now meeting with stakeholders and key legislators to discuss the issue and its importance to the sustainability of emergency transport throughout the state. A committee meeting on the bill may come as early as Thursday, February 5th. We are continuing to talk with key legislators and stakeholders and bringing specific agencies into these conversations where beneficial.

 

WHAT YOU CAN DO:
Be on the lookout for an Action Alert. Our team is intentional in considering where your voice can do the most. Sometimes, packing the committee with uniforms and oral testimony is the right path. Other times it is not.

 

If your agency participates in the GEMT program, be on the lookout for a request for written testimony. We will provide a basic outline with key points we’d like you to touch on.

 

The delay in making the firm request is for two reasons: First, we want to ensure we understand and can address concerns of legislators within the recommended outlines of the letter. Second, the timeline may change - right now, the hearing is scheduled for Thursday, February 5th but that could change.

 

FUTURE INFORMATION:
We will be hosting a 30 minute informational session at 11:00 on Monday, February 2nd. You can join the meeting here. This will be a space to review the information, provide additional guidance on written testimony, and answer any questions you might have.

 

Thank you very much for your interest and commitment to the Oregon fire service. We appreciate all your hard work and support.

 

Brian Stewart, Oregon Fire Chief’s Association

Ben Stange, SDAO Fire & EMS Chapter