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Bill

SB 1235

EMS reciprocity; compact.

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by John Kavanagh

Arizona joins the EMS Compact, allowing paramedics and EMTs to gain automatic reciprocal certification across member states instead of obtaining separate licenses.

Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · SB 1235

Legislative bill overview

SB 1235 would authorize Arizona to join the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Compact, a multistate agreement that allows paramedics and emergency medical technicians to maintain certification reciprocity across participating states. The bill establishes legal framework and governance structures for compact participation, including an interstate commission and procedures for credential recognition.

Why is this important

Currently, paramedics and EMTs must obtain separate certifications in each state where they work, creating barriers to interstate mobility and potentially leaving some areas with staffing shortages. The compact would streamline credential portability, allow faster deployment of medical personnel across state lines during emergencies, and reduce regulatory burden on healthcare workers seeking to practice in multiple states.

Potential points of contention

  • Sovereignty concerns: Some may argue that joining a multistate compact reduces Arizona's independent control over EMS licensing standards and professional qualifications
  • Credential quality variation: Critics may worry that reciprocity could allow lower-certified personnel from less-stringent states to practice in Arizona
  • Emergency deployment authority: Questions about which entity controls EMS personnel deployment during multistate emergencies and liability frameworks
  • Implementation costs: State administrative expenses for maintaining compact membership and processing reciprocal credentials

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

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