MADISON — On March 19, Senator Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) introduced legislation to support EMS volunteers and EMS departments across the 17th Senate District. The legislation comes after Sen. Marklein held four EMS Summits across his district to gather input from dozens of EMS personnel representing more than 20 departments.

“I am pleased to introduce this legislation after hearing directly from the EMS personnel in my district,” Sen. Marklein said. “This bill continues my commitment to supporting our local EMS departments and recognizing the efforts of our EMS personnel.”  

The bill contains five provisions to positively impact Wisconsin’s EMS system:

●  Extends the timelines and adjusts the requirements for individuals who want to return to EMS after some time away.

●  Expands flexible staffing to include EMR departments. 

●  Allows Physician Assistants (PAs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) to utilize their full scopes of practice on EMS departments. Doctors are already allowed to do this.

●  Provides a state income tax subtraction for EMS stipends (up to $2,000).

●  Reduces the administrative burden on licensed, out-of-state EMS personnel looking to become licensed in Wisconsin.

In addition, Sen. Marklein introduced a joint resolution supporting and recognizing businesses that allow employees to leave during the work day to respond to EMS calls.

“This bill will increase the quality of EMS care, grant additional flexibilities to EMS departments, and provide a small thank you to our dedicated EMS volunteers,” Sen. Marklein said. “Our joint resolution will recognize the many Wisconsin businesses that already allow employees to leave during the work day, while encouraging more businesses to do the same.”