CENTRALIA/SALEM, IL — As state lawmakers are finalizing budget numbers for the upcoming fiscal year, local officials are protesting the possible loss of state funding for local Emergency Management Agencies. Both Centralia and Salem stand to lose $25,000 each in state funding in the current budget plans.

ESDA agencies provide emergency services such as traffic control during fires, car crashes and police activity. They also assist during natural disasters and mass casualty situations such as train derailments.

Emergency service agencies are staffed by volunteer service.