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Bill

AB 971

Relating to: tuition and materials reimbursement for community paramedics and community emergency medical services practitioners. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Armstrong and 17 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill establishes tuition and materials reimbursement program for community paramedics and EMS practitioners to expand emergency healthcare workforce access.

Failed to concur in pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · AB 971

Legislative bill overview

AB 971 establishes a reimbursement program for tuition and materials costs incurred by community paramedics and community emergency medical services (EMS) practitioners in Wisconsin. The bill aims to support the education and professional development of these healthcare workers who provide care in community settings rather than traditional hospital environments.

Why is this important

Community paramedics and EMS practitioners address gaps in emergency healthcare access, particularly in underserved or rural areas. By reducing financial barriers to their education and certification, the bill could increase the workforce available for community-based emergency response and preventative care, potentially reducing strain on traditional emergency departments.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism unclear: The bill's fiscal note indicates it has a significant fiscal effect, but the specific funding source and annual cost burden on the state budget are not detailed in available information
  • Eligibility and scope definitions: Questions remain about which practitioners qualify, what specific tuition/materials are reimbursable, and whether limits exist on reimbursement amounts
  • Implementation oversight: No clear details on how reimbursements will be administered, verified, or whether participants must commit to working in specific geographic areas or service types post-training

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

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