Mississippi House Bill HB696

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

EMTs; authorize those with law enforcement agency special teams to perform certain advanced medical procedures.

Impact

The implications of HB 696 on state laws are significant, particularly regarding the legal authority of EMTs operating in a law enforcement context. It would amend existing statutes concerning the roles and responsibilities of EMTs, especially in high-pressure environments. By providing a legal framework that enables trained EMTs to take on advanced medical tasks, this bill intends to promote better emergency medical services during tactical operations. The expected impact includes improved emergency response efficacy and potentially enhanced survival outcomes for individuals suffering from severe injuries in active situations.

Summary

House Bill 696 authorizes emergency medical technicians (EMTs), who are members of law enforcement agency Special Response Teams (SRT) or Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Teams, to perform advanced medical procedures under medical control. The bill specifies that EMTs must undergo extensive training and certifications in Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) and/or Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) to be permitted to execute such procedures. This legislative measure aims to enhance the medical capabilities of specialized law enforcement units, allowing them to respond more effectively to emergencies in critical situations.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention regarding the scope of authority conferred upon EMTs under this bill. Critics could raise concerns about the risks associated with allowing EMTs, regardless of their specialized training, to perform complex medical procedures in chaotic environments typical of tactical operations. Questions surrounding liability, oversight, and the adequacy of training for EMTs in these roles may be debated, examining whether such expanded responsibilities might place both the personnel and individuals in need of care at unmanageable risk. The balance between quick response capabilities and the assurance of safe, professional medical conduct may emerge as a critical concern in the discussions surrounding this legislation.