Assembly Bill 198 aims to enhance emergency medical services (EMS) education and support in Wisconsin by establishing a grant program for technical colleges and a reimbursement program for individuals pursuing certification or licensure as emergency medical responders or practitioners. The bill mandates the Technical College System Board to provide grants to technical colleges that offer EMS courses, with the stipulation that admission priority cannot be given based on the college district of residence. Additionally, the Higher Educational Aids Board is tasked with developing a reimbursement program for tuition and materials costs incurred by individuals or their employers, contingent upon the completion of required courses and examinations.
Furthermore, the bill introduces a Live 911 pilot program, which allows the Department of Military Affairs to distribute grants aimed at facilitating real-time video and multimedia communications between public safety answering points and emergency callers. The department is also required to report annually to the legislature on the pilot program's performance, including outcomes, changes in dispatch responses, and any associated cost savings. This comprehensive approach seeks to improve the training and resources available to emergency medical personnel while enhancing the efficiency of emergency response services.