Since the June Commission meeting, POST staff has worked with EMSA to modify subsequent revisions of regulations, including holding two informational workshops for agencies/stakeholders throughout the state.  The initial version of the proposed regulation was developed with limited input from POST and law enforcement, which resulted in concerns regarding the content.

To address the concerns POST initiated dialogue with EMSA, and facilitated meetings with state-wide stakeholders, including personnel from a variety of public safety disciplines, including EMSA and law enforcement professional associations.  The meetings were held in order to determine the best course of action for addressing the First Aid/CPR needs of law enforcement and allowed substantive discussion and feedback.

During the workshops and through additional communication with EMSA and the field, staff provided EMSA with recommendations, identified issues to consider, and suggested revisions of the proposed regulations.  The regulations add new content that addresses: Automated External Defibrillators (AED); assistance in the administration of oral glucose, naloxone, and epinephrine; and treating assorted trauma emergencies (see Attachment A).  The revised regulations also require the training to be competency based. The EMSA regulations will eventually be reflected in POST regulations, including the Training and Testing Specifications and instructor qualifications.  The content impacts Learning Domain 34 in the Basic Course, and in-service training for California peace officers.

One of the issues that will affect state and local agencies is the increased cost that will be incurred.  The costs are related to increased hours of training, First Aid/CPR equipment and supplies needed to conduct the training, and the expenses to equip officers with equipment/supplies they are authorized to carry and use in the administration of first aid/CPR.  There are no funds earmarked to address these added costs. 

The California State Sheriffs’ Association, California Police Chiefs Association, California Peace Officers' Association and Peace Officers Research Association of California have reviewed the proposed regulations and advised POST they are in support of the changes to the regulations.

POST has scheduled its first curriculum development meeting on October 28 - 30, 2014.  Staff will collaborate with EMSA, law enforcement, first aid instructors and emergency medical personnel to update the Basic Course, in-service and instructor training.  By involving appropriate stakeholders in this undertaking, POST will produce updated, compliant revisions to the First Aid/CPR courses.