Michigan House Bill HB5155

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/17/23
• Refer: 10/17/23

Caption

Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; licensure of medical first responders and emergency medical technicians; allow at 17 years of age. Amends sec. 20950 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20950). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5154'23

Impact

By lowering the minimum age for licensure, the bill is expected to have a significant impact on the availability of trained emergency responders in the state. The amendment could lead to more effective emergency services, as it enables young individuals who have completed requisite training programs to step into roles that require immediate staffing, especially in rural or underserved areas. This may enhance the overall responsiveness of emergency medical services, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 5155 seeks to amend the Public Health Code of Michigan, specifically targeting the licensure requirements for medical first responders and emergency medical technicians. The bill proposes to allow individuals as young as 17 years of age to receive licensure, changing the previous requirement that mandated applicants be at least 18 years old. This adjustment is intended to increase the pool of future emergency services personnel, making pathways to career opportunities more accessible to younger individuals interested in pursuing careers in healthcare or emergency response.

Contention

Notably, while proponents argue that this change could help fill gaps in emergency services staffing, there are concerns regarding the maturity and experience of such young applicants. Critics may argue that allowing 17-year-olds to operate in high-stakes environments without the full life experience of older applicants could lead to increased risks during emergency situations. This aspect of the bill may ignite debates about the balance between increasing workforce availability and ensuring public safety in emergency medical scenarios.