The bill H. B. No. 2025-2026 mandates that all municipal corporations and townships in Ohio provide firefighting and emergency medical services within their jurisdictions. Specifically, it requires these entities to deliver these services either directly, through a district or joint district, via contracts, or through other authorized means. The bill also clarifies that it does not grant general authority to provide these services beyond what is specified.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Fire and EMS Shared Services Reimbursement Grant Program, which will be administered by the state fire marshal. This program allows eligible townships and municipal corporations to receive grants to reimburse certain expenses related to joining a district or entering into contracts for the provision of firefighting and emergency medical services. Eligible expenses include costs associated with joining a district or acquiring necessary equipment and training. The reimbursement can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a cap of $100,000, and entities can only receive one reimbursement under the program. The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2026.