The proposed legislation seeks to improve the administration and oversight of emergency medical services (EMS) in Idaho by transferring authority from the Department of Health and Welfare to the Idaho Military Division. This transition is designed to enhance coordination and efficiency in emergency management. The bill establishes the "Emergency Medical Services Act" within Title 46 of the Idaho Code, detailing the responsibilities of the new EMS program, including the appointment of a medical director and the establishment of personnel licensure standards. It also introduces provisions for the distribution of EMS funds, including a vehicle and equipment grant fund, and mandates county accountability for EMS availability. The legislation repeals several existing sections related to EMS to streamline the regulatory framework, with a target implementation date of July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill creates the Idaho Time Sensitive Emergency System Council to oversee a voluntary statewide system for trauma, stroke, and heart attack facilities, ensuring representation from various EMS agencies and healthcare facilities. It amends existing legal language to clarify the purpose of EMS in Idaho, emphasizing their role in public health and safety, and ensures that regulations are not more restrictive than those in neighboring states. The bill also updates definitions related to EMS personnel and introduces liability protections for licensed personnel acting in good faith. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency medical care in Idaho while ensuring proper funding and accountability within the system.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 56-1011, 56-1012, 56-1013, 56-1014, 56-1015, 56-1016, 56-1023, 56-1024, 56-1026, 56-1030, 57-2004, 57-2007, 57-2005, 6-902A, 9-203, 18-915, 31-3908, 33-4302, 39-1392, 39-1393, 39-4703, 39-8202, 46-1007, 49-123, 49-306, 49-452, 49-910A, 56-1003, 63-3622O, 67-8802, 67-8806, 72-451, 74-106, 56-1013A, 56-1020, 56-1021, 56-1022, 56-1025, 56-1027, 56-1028, 56-1029, 57-2001, 57-2002, 57-2003, 57-2006, 56-1018, 56-1018A, 56-1018B