STATEHOUSE (Jan. 6, 2026) – A bill authored by State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) would classify emergency medical services as essential under Indiana law.
House Bill 1251 would formally recognize EMS as an essential public service, similar to police and fire departments. O’Brien said this classification emphasizes the importance of EMS first responders and the need to address shortages in areas that are currently underserved by emergency ambulance services.
“Emergency medical services, including ambulance services, play a vital role in safeguarding public health, safety and welfare,” O’Brien said. “In too many areas, especially rural communities, people worry about whether an ambulance will arrive quickly when they call 911. This bill is about recognizing EMS as essential and making sure counties are identifying areas in need and covering those lapses.”
O’Brien authored a law in 2024 to have the Indiana Department of Homeland Security conduct a comprehensive overview of EMS services across the state. The report found significant gaps in EMS staffing levels across districts, notable variation in basic and advanced life support services across counties, including no coverage in some townships, and difficulty recruiting and retaining EMS workers in certain areas.
O’Brien said his bill would also have county commissioners identify underserved areas and contract with providers to establish EMS services.
House Bill 1251 was referred to the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee for consideration. To learn more about the bill and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
