Bill > H4076

This bill establishes a special commission to comprehensively study and guide the implementation of emergency medical services (EMS) in Massachusetts. The commission will be composed of 16 members representing diverse stakeholders, including state officials, urban and rural EMS agencies, public health experts, hospital representatives, and professional associations. The commission is required to convene at least quarterly starting by July 1, 2026, and must hold at least two public hearings to gather input from EMS providers, municipal leaders, and residents. Its key responsibilities include assessing current EMS coverage, funding, and workforce capacity; identifying service disparities in underserved communities; developing sustainable funding recommendations; exploring regionalization strategies; addressing workforce shortages; and creating performance metrics and accountability standards. The Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services will provide administrative support, and the commission can request data from various state and local entities. Within 15 months of the act's effective date, the commission must submit a detailed final report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to several state government bodies, with an option to seek public comment on a draft report beforehand. The bill is framed as an emergency law necessary for preserving public health.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4076