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Bill

SD 2502

An Act transferring emergency medical services to the executive office of public safety and security

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Feeney

Massachusetts bill moves emergency medical services administration under the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, consolidating EMS with law enforcement and fire agencies.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 2502

Legislative bill overview

SD 2502 proposes relocating emergency medical services (EMS) operations from their current administrative home to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security in Massachusetts. This consolidation would place EMS under the same executive umbrella as police, fire, and homeland security agencies rather than maintaining it as a separate or differently-housed operation.

Why this is important

EMS coordination directly affects emergency response times and public health outcomes during medical crises. Moving EMS under the public safety umbrella could either streamline inter-agency coordination or disrupt existing operational relationships, depending on current structural arrangements. The change also signals a policy shift in how Massachusetts views emergency medical services—as a public safety function versus potentially a health services function.

Potential points of contention

  • Operational disruption: Transferring agencies involves administrative overhead, potential staff reassignments, and temporary service disruptions during transition
  • Resource allocation priorities: Public safety budgeting may prioritize law enforcement/fire over EMS expansion, or vice versa, affecting funding competitiveness
  • Clinical vs. law enforcement culture: EMS operates under medical protocols and professional standards; housing it within a law enforcement-oriented office could create philosophical and operational conflicts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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