The bill amends several sections of South Dakota law to modify the requirements for ambulance operators and the use of blue lights on emergency vehicles. It specifies that an ambulance operator must be at least eighteen years old, possess a driver's license, and meet certain qualifications, including being licensed as emergency medical services personnel, a firefighter, or a law enforcement officer. Additionally, the operator must provide documentation of completing CPR training and an emergency vehicle operator course. The bill also allows ambulance operators who meet these requirements to operate an ambulance in excess of the speed limit without using audible signals when outside city limits.

Furthermore, the bill updates the legal framework surrounding the use of blue lights on vehicles, clarifying that only authorized individuals, including ambulance operators who meet the new requirements, may use blue lights. It maintains that the use of blue lights does not exempt drivers from the responsibility of driving safely. The bill also includes various amendments to existing definitions and regulations related to emergency medical services personnel, ensuring that the standards for licensure and conduct are clearly defined and enforced. Notably, it repeals a previous section of law, streamlining the regulatory framework for emergency medical services in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/01/2026: 32-17-42, 32-31-4, 34-11-12, 36-4B-1, 36-4B-31, 36-4B-35, 36-4B-42, 36-4B-41
House Health and Human Services Engrossed, 01/20/2026: 32-17-42, 32-31-4, 34-11-12, 36-4B-1, 36-4B-31, 36-4B-35, 36-4B-42, 36-4B-41
Enrolled, 02/02/2026: 32-17-42, 32-31-4, 34-11-12, 36-4B-1, 36-4B-31, 36-4B-35, 36-4B-42, 36-4B-41