SAINT PAUL – Legislation co-authored by State Representative Jeff Backer, R-Browns Valley, that provides aid to licensed ambulance service providers, received its first committee hearing today in the Health Finance and Policy Committee. House File 3992 helps EMS providers that are struggling under the current “fee-for-service” model that has left rural areas of the state with decreasing access to ambulances and other EMS options.
“As a member of the EMS Task Force and a volunteer EMT since 1995, I have brought a unique perspective to the crisis facing ambulance services in Greater Minnesota,” said Backer. “This one-time, emergency funding will help to make sure that services can continue uninterrupted for Minnesotans living in rural communities. However, the problems facing these life-saving services run deep and will likely take significant, structural changes to ensure the long-term viability of EMS across Minnesota.”
The bill establishes an aid program for licensed ambulance service providers, administered by the commissioner of revenue and makes a onetime appropriation of $122.5 million for the program. It was passed out of the Health Finance and Policy Committee and referred to the Taxes Committee where it awaits further action.
Otter Tail County Emergency Manager, Patrick Waletzko, testified in support of the bill during the committee hearing. Also pictured is Rep. Tom Murphy.
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