ID S1416

EMS Bureau Relocation: Transfers the Emergency Medical Services Bureau from the Department of Health and Welfare to the Office of Emergency Management, effective July 1, 2025, emphasizing the connection between EMS and emergency management.

EMS Designated as Essential Service: Establishes that the delivery of emergency medical services is an essential governmental function with counties accountable for ensuring reasonable EMS availability throughout their jurisdictions.

Emergency Medical Services Sustainability Fund: Creates a new fund to help offset personnel and operating costs for EMS agencies, with the Office of Emergency Management distributing grants to qualifying 911 response agencies that meet billing and planning criteria.

Reorganization of EMS Regulations: Moves EMS licensing, certification, and regulatory provisions from Title 56 (Health and Welfare) to Title 46 (Emergency Management), including oversight by the EMS physician commission and maintenance of the REPLICA interstate compact.

Effective Dates: Sections related to county accountability and the sustainability fund take effect July 1, 2024, while most other provisions take effect July 1, 2025.