New York Assembly Bill A07356

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/25/25
• Refer: 3/25/25
• Report Pass: 6/12/25
• Refer: 6/12/25
• Report Pass: 6/13/25

Caption

Sets minimum staffing standards for employees performing emergency medical services in the 911 system in a city with a population of over one million people.

Impact

The proposed amendments would represent a significant shift in the staffing requirements for EMS units in major cities. By legally enforcing these standards, the bill seeks to ensure that adequate medical personnel are available during emergencies, which could lead to better patient outcomes. The implementation of such mandated staffing levels could also necessitate changes within local EMS departments, including adjustments in hiring practices and training programs to meet the new requirements.

Summary

Bill A07356 proposes to amend the public health law concerning emergency medical services (EMS) in cities with populations exceeding one million. The focus of the bill is to establish minimum staffing standards for ambulance services responding to 911 calls. Specifically, it mandates that for ambulance units, at least two certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or two certified advanced EMTs must be present when responding to emergencies. This change aims to improve response times and the level of care given to patients in urgent situations in large urban areas.

Contention

While some advocates support A07356 for its potential to enhance public health safety, there may be concerns regarding the resource implications for cities tasked with meeting these new staffing mandates. Critics might argue that enforcing strict staffing ratios could lead to increased operational costs and strain existing EMS budgets, particularly in financially challenged municipalities. The dialogue surrounding this bill may involve discussions of balancing safety with financial feasibility amid ongoing debates over public spending on health services.