The Ohio House yesterday approved a bill designed to let fire departments save a few dollars by allowing paramedics to administer immunizations for influenza to firefighters or medical technicians.

Under current law, local fire departments and EMS need to hire contractors to provide the immunizations.

The bill “will allow fire departments to run more cost effectively, while also enhancing public safety within our communities,” said Rep. Anne Gonzales, R-Westerville, a joint sponsor of the measure, which now goes to the Senate.