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HB 402

EMS Controlled Substance Licensing Amendments

2026 General Session Introduced by Evan Vickers and 1 co-sponsor

HB 402 modifies Utah EMS licensing rules for controlled substance handling, affecting emergency medication administration protocols and provider authorization requirements.

Governor Signed
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Bill Summary · HB 402

Legislative bill overview

HB 402 amends Utah's EMS (Emergency Medical Services) controlled substance licensing requirements, modifying how emergency medical personnel are authorized to handle and administer controlled substances in the field. The bill has progressed through the legislature and was sent to the Governor on March 11, 2026. The specific amendments involve licensing procedures, scope of practice, or regulatory oversight for EMS providers working with controlled substances.

Why is this important

EMS agencies rely on controlled substances like opioids and sedatives to treat acute medical emergencies, and licensing frameworks directly affect patient care capabilities and provider accountability. Changes to these regulations can impact response times, treatment options available in ambulances, and how quickly EMS personnel can administer life-saving medications. This also affects workforce recruitment and retention, as licensing complexity can burden EMS agencies already struggling with staffing.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope creep vs. patient safety: Expanding EMS authority over controlled substances may improve emergency care but could raise concerns about oversight, training standards, and preventing misuse
  • Regulatory burden: Streamlining licensing may reduce administrative costs for EMS agencies but could eliminate safeguards some argue are necessary for accountability
  • Implementation challenges: Changes require training updates, policy revisions at agency level, and potential coordination with law enforcement and pharmacy boards

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

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