Bill > HB1043

This bill requires counties and municipalities in South Dakota to provide emergency medical services (EMS) within their jurisdictions and establishes a new emergency medical services fund to support these efforts. The bill increases liquidated court costs from fifty to fifty-five dollars, with five dollars of that increase being allocated to the new EMS fund. Counties and municipalities are now mandated to provide a minimum level of emergency medical service, including specific requirements for response times, staffing, treatment protocols, and quality assurance standards. The department will create rules defining these minimum service levels and establish a grant program to help counties and municipalities, particularly those with smaller populations, supplement their EMS funding. Grants can be used for operational costs, equipment purchases, personnel recruitment, and training. To receive grants, counties and municipalities must demonstrate financial need and submit applications according to department guidelines. The bill also requires an annual report on grant recipients and allocates an initial $1,000,000 from the general fund to the new EMS fund, with the legislation taking effect on June 30, 2025. This bill aims to ensure comprehensive and sustainable emergency medical services across South Dakota, especially in rural and smaller communities.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/25606