BILL NUMBER:  AB 941
  VETOED	DATE: 10/14/2007




To the Members of the California State Assembly:

I am returning Assembly Bill 941 without my signature.  While I
appreciate the efforts by the author and stakeholders to improve
coordination and oversight of California's emergency medical
technicians in a manner that better protects public safety, I cannot
sign this bill.  AB 941 would establish a statewide registry for
EMTs, establish background check requirements and provide for uniform
disciplinary standards.  However, it falls short of what is needed
to protect public safety and ensure appropriate oversight of EMTs.
Specifically, I am concerned this bill lacks requirements and
penalties to assure timely notice when an investigation is initiated,
does not provide sufficient authority for local medical directors to
independently initiate investigations, and fails to establish clear
standards for background checks.  In addition, I am concerned that
the bill would significantly limit public disclosure.  I therefore
direct the Health and Human Services Agency to work in a
collaborative manner with stakeholders on legislation that builds on
AB 941, and improves it to get the job done.

For these reasons, I am returning Assembly Bill 941 without my
signature.

Sincerely,



Arnold Schwarzenegger