Ambulance service volunteer education cost reimbursement requirements modified.
Impact
The revisions made by HF853 are significant for volunteer ambulance services, as they aim to alleviate some financial burdens associated with training. With the rising costs of education and training for EMTs, this bill reflects an acknowledgment of the crucial role that volunteers play in the state's emergency services. By increasing the reimbursement amounts, the bill is expected to incentivize individuals to pursue volunteer opportunities and thus help maintain sufficient staffing levels within these essential services.
Summary
House File 853, titled 'Ambulance service volunteer education cost reimbursement requirements modified,' seeks to revise the reimbursement structure for volunteer ambulance attendants in Minnesota. The bill is designed to ensure that licensed ambulance services receive compensation for the cost of initial and continuing education for their volunteer staff. Specifically, it amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 144E.35, to modify the reimbursement caps, allowing for an increase in the amount reimbursed for successful completion of education courses from $600 to $900 for initial training, and from $275 to $375 for continuing education courses.
Contention
While the overall sentiment surrounding HF853 seems to favor enhancing support for volunteer EMT training, potential contention could arise around funding sources for the increased reimbursements. Stakeholders may question how these reimbursement changes will be funded and whether there are sufficient resources allocated in the state budget to support these provisions without adversely affecting other health services. The implications of these financial adjustments on local program budgets or contributions from local government could also spark debate among legislators and community leaders.
Ambulance staffing requirements and emergency medical responder registration modified, authority to reinstate ambulance service personnel certifications extended, requirements for approval and reapproval of education programs modified, and appropriation modified.
Office of Emergency Medical Services established to replace Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, duties specified and transferred, advisory council established, alternative EMS response model pilot program established, conforming changes made, provisions modified relating to ambulance service personnel and emergency medical responders, emergency ambulance service aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.