Along the far reaches of the rugged North Coast, the “golden hour” isn’t about spectacular sunsets or other whimsical seaside moments. It is the 60-minute span from the time when a person needs emergency medical attention until they arrive at a hospital. Get the patient there within that period, and they have a better chance of surviving. It’s often a matter of life and death. Now, the ability to do that through a robust system of air ambulances is being challenged. A primary funding source derived from a $4 fee on traffic tickets is set to expire Dec. 31. And legislation meant to extend it appears hopelessly stalled.