Requires issuance of temporary emergency medical services certifications.
Impact
The bill specifies that for the duration of a declared state of emergency or public health emergency, the Commissioner of Health can issue provisional certifications without requiring the traditional prerequisites normally necessary for certification reinstatement. This includes the ability to temporarily reactivate the certifications of inactive paramedics and grant temporary reciprocity to out-of-state paramedics who meet certain criteria. The focus on streamlining the process reflects a critical need to maintain an operational workforce in emergency medical services during public health crises.
Summary
Senate Bill S1743, introduced by Senator Anthony M. Bucco, aims to facilitate the issuance of temporary emergency medical services certifications. This bill amends existing legislation (P.L.2020, c.18) to mandate that the Commissioner of Health grants provisional certifications to emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, including those whose certifications have recently expired. These provisional certifications are intended to address personnel shortages in the healthcare response system during emergency situations, particularly those arising from the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Contention
The bill's provisions, particularly the waiving of typical certification requirements and the expedited processing of applications, have sparked discussions regarding the balance of immediate healthcare needs with regulatory integrity. Supporters argue that such measures are essential for enhancing the state's emergency response capabilities, while opponents express concerns that reduced certification requirements could compromise the quality and readiness of emergency medical services. Endorsements from various health agencies suggest a consensus on the urgency of these changes, yet concerns remain about the long-term implications for certification standards.
Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.
An Act Concerning The Department Of Public Health's Recommendations Regarding Revisions To Emergency Medical Services Definitions, Certification And Continuing Education Requirements.
Provisions for public review process in rulemaking, case mix review, and Minnesota One Health Antimicrobial Stewardship Collaborative changed; definition modified; procurement contractor waiver created; independent informal dispute resolution process aligned; and licensure requirements for certain professions modified.
Transfer care specialist registration established, behavior analysts licensure established, veterinary technician and veterinary institutional license established, veterinary supervision provisions modified, specialty dentist licensure and dental assistant licensure modified, physician assistant additional collaboration requirements removed, social worker provisional licensure modified, guest licensure established for marriage and family therapists, pharmacy provisions modified, and money appropriated.
Relating to the access to and use of certain criminal history record information, to the procedure for obtaining that information, and to the correct terminology for certain licenses the issuance of which requires a criminal history background check.
Relating to the access to and use of certain criminal history record information, to the procedure for obtaining that information, and to the correct terminology for certain licenses the issuance of which requires a criminal history background check.