Will New Law Make EMS Shortage Worse?
A new law means big changes to the way EMS and firefighters are licensed by the state. Some worry these changes could make the shortage of EMS workers and volunteer firefighters even worse. But what does the law really say?
The New Law
House Bill 509 was signed by Governor DeWine on January 5 and goes into effect on April 6. The law changes requirements for many professional licenses in Ohio, including EMS and fire certification.
The Changes
Going forward, EMS continuing education can only be offered by accredited institutions. Those accredited institutions must offer continuing education.
For the time being, other sites with certificates can offer the training, but that will be phased out. The Assistant EMS Instructor certification has been eliminated. The Assistant Fire Instructor certification has been eliminated. Current certifications remain valid until they expire, and they will not be renewed on or after April 6, 2023.
Continuing Education Requirements Reduced
Requirements for paramedic recertification have been reduced from 86 hours to 75 hours for every 3-year certification cycle starting April 6.
Requirements for firefighter certifications have been reduced from 54 hours to 36 hours.
Some have expressed concern about what happens if there are no educational institutions nearby to provide the training, fearing that the added burden of traveling to classes might deter even more people from becoming volunteer first responders.
The entire House Bill 509 document can be reviewed at https://search-prod.lis.state.oh.us/solarapi/v1/general_assembly_134/bills/hb509/EN/05/hb509_05_EN?format=pdf
If you have any questions or comments regarding the bill, please contact the Ohio Division of EMS at 1(800) 233-0785.