Representative Eric Emery

Biography

Eric E. Emery is an American Democratic politician and emergency medical services professional serving in the South Dakota House of Representatives, representing District 26A. He has built his career at the intersection of public health policy and emergency services, with deep roots in tribal healthcare systems and rural medicine.

Emery serves as the Program Director of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Ambulance Service in Rosebud, South Dakota, where he oversees staffing, fleet modernization, and the integration of EMS with rural and tribal health systems. His work in this role has shaped his legislative priorities and policy expertise.

Political Experience

Emery was elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives in 2022 and took office on January 10, 2023, succeeding Shawn Bordeaux. He currently holds the position of Assistant Minority Leader, a leadership role he assumed in 2025.

In the legislature, Emery has concentrated on rural health initiatives, EMS system sustainability, tribal public health policy, and legislation to establish EMS as an essential service in South Dakota. His committee assignments include House State Affairs, Health and Human Services, State–Tribal Relations, and Government Operations and Audit.

A notable legislative effort was House Bill 1043, introduced in January 2025, which aimed to establish a state EMS fund and require local governments to provide emergency services. The bill did not advance beyond committee.

National Service

From 2015 to 2021, Emery served on the National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council , where he provided policy guidance to the United States Department of Transportation on national EMS policy matters.