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HB 1238

Designating Emergency Medical Services Essential Services

2026 Regular Session

Colorado HB 1238 legally designates emergency medical services as essential operations that must continue during emergencies, clarifying EMS's critical infrastructure status.

Governor Signed
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Bill Summary · HB 1238

Legislative bill overview

HB 1238 designates Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as essential services in Colorado. This classification would legally establish EMS operations as critical infrastructure that must be maintained during emergencies, disruptions, or disasters.

Why is this important

Designating EMS as essential services clarifies that ambulance services, paramedics, and emergency response personnel must continue operating during crises—ensuring continuity of care during public health emergencies, natural disasters, or other disruptions. This designation can affect labor protections, funding priorities, and regulatory flexibility for EMS providers during declared emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Labor implications: Essential services designation may restrict EMS workers' right to strike or collective bargaining, affecting labor negotiations and worker protections
  • Funding and resource allocation: May create unfunded mandates requiring EMS providers to maintain service levels without corresponding budget increases or state support
  • Definition clarity: The bill's specifics on which EMS entities qualify, what "essential" requires operationally, and enforcement mechanisms are unclear from the legislative history provided

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

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