JEFFERSON CITY -- The Missouri Ambulance Association (MAA) recently named Sen. John Griesheimer, R-Washington, 2003 Legislator of the Year, for his dedication to advancing health care issues that impact EMS workers throughout the state.

"I'm honored to be recognized by such a fine organization," said Griesheimer. "Emergency care providers are an essential part of health care."

As a member of the House of Representatives, Griesheimer co-authored and co-sponsored the toughest law regulating HMO's in the country. He also worked with state and local fire and EMS officials to pass the most comprehensive EMS law in 25 years.

Griesheimer currently serves as chairman of the Joint Committee on Terrorism, Bioterrorism and Homeland Security, which deals with a variety of issues impacting EMS workers.

"EMS workers protect the public in the same way as law enforcement and fire fighters," Griesheimer said. "In the worst possible situations, they are on the scene to do their jobs regardless of any personal risk."

The Missouri Ambulance Association is a not-for-profit, non-partisan advocacy group dedicated to ensuring sound policy decisions with the best interests of emergency care providers and Missouri citizens in mind. Membership in MAA includes ambulance districts, private ambulance providers and emergency health care professionals.