Illinois Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon is asking a state task force to recommend more online training for emergency medical service providers in rural areas.

Simon testified Tuesday in Galesburg before a state EMS task force. She says paramedics and others called on to rescue people in emergencies often have to pay for their own training, including lost wages and overnight travel.

She says many providers in rural areas are "finding themselves on life support" financially.

The task force is comprised of representatives in the Illinois House who are holding public hearings across the state. The group will make recommendations about its findings by the end of the year.