ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Governor Kathy Hochul wants to declare EMS an essential service, like police and fire departments. 

Tompkins County Legislator Rich John tells WHCU it would require a different approach. 

Hochul first announced her proposal in January.

Funding for the 2-year rapid response medical program in Tompkins County ends this year. 

FULL INTERVIEW: Tompkins County Legislator Rich John on Ithaca’s Morning News