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Bill

HB 1767

TO ABOLISH THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL; AND TO CREATE THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Irvin and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1767 restructures Arkansas EMS oversight by replacing the Advisory Council with a new committee, enhancing efficiency and allowing local governments to set standards.

Notification that HB1767 is now Act 863
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Bill Summary · HB 1767

Summary of House Bill 1767 (Act 863)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1767, now known as Act 863, aims to streamline the governance of emergency medical services (EMS) in Arkansas by abolishing the existing Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council and establishing a new Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee. This legislative change is intended to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of EMS oversight within the state.

Key Provisions

  1. Abolition of the Advisory Council:

    • The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council is officially abolished.
    • Its powers and duties are transferred to the newly created Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee and the State Board of Health.

  2. Administrative Functions:

    • All administrative responsibilities, including budgeting, purchasing, and personnel management, will remain with the Department of Health.

  3. Continuity of Existing Regulations:

    • The act ensures that any existing orders, rules, and standards established by the Advisory Council will remain in effect until amended or repealed by the appropriate authority.

  4. Amendments to Arkansas Code:

    • Several sections of the Arkansas Code are amended to reflect the new structure and responsibilities, including:
      • Municipal Affairs: Clarifications on how emergency medical services relate to municipal affairs.
      • Ambulance Licensing Act: Provisions allowing cities and counties to establish standards that meet or exceed state requirements for EMS.

  5. EMS Enhancement Revolving Fund:

    • Establishes the EMS Enhancement Revolving Fund, detailing the allocation of funds for various purposes, including grants for state-licensed EMS, training programs, and maintaining quality emergency medical services.

  6. Committee Composition:

    • The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee will consist of various stakeholders, including emergency medical technicians, ambulance service providers, and representatives from training programs.

Affected Parties

  • Emergency Medical Services Providers: The bill directly impacts EMS providers by altering the governance structure and potentially affecting funding and operational standards.
  • State Board of Health: The Board will take on additional responsibilities as part of the new oversight framework.
  • Local Governments: Cities and counties will have increased authority to set local EMS standards.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: March 12, 2025
  • Passed by House: March 31, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 14, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 15, 2025
  • Notification of Act: April 17, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1767 represents a significant restructuring of the oversight of emergency medical services in Arkansas. By abolishing the Advisory Council and creating a new committee, the legislation seeks to improve the management and delivery of emergency medical services across the state, ensuring that they meet the evolving needs of the community.

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

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