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MaineLD 1981132nd Maine Legislature (2025-2026)SenateWALLET

An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Emergency Medical Services' Board and the Blue Ribbon Commission to Study Emergency Medical Services in the State

Sponsored By: Joseph M. Baldacci (Democratic)

Became Law

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICESEMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES - SYSTEM

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

6 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 4 mixed.

New licensing and renewal rules for EMS workers

The law sets clear rules to get and keep an EMS license. You must pass board‑approved training and tests. Renewal requires set training and a proven level of skill. Applicants must pay for a criminal background check. You must report name or address changes, convictions, or discipline to the board within 10 days. The board defines what counts as basic EMS skills.

New standards for ambulance operators

The law sets training and licensing standards for ambulance operators. You must meet education and continuing‑education rules and hold a valid driver’s license. Applicants face criminal history and driver record checks. These checks are confidential and used only to decide suitability.

Stronger oversight and privacy in EMS discipline

The licensing board investigates complaints, can subpoena records, and may hold conferences. It must tell a licensee the complaint within 60 days and give 30 days to reply, unless there is an emergency. The law lists reasons for denial or discipline, like fraud, drug use, incompetence, or criminal convictions. Quality‑assurance and investigative records stay confidential, with narrow safety exceptions. The Director may share records only to prevent imminent, serious harm. For dispatch centers, the board checks impacts with the 9‑1‑1 bureau and may share needed details to protect the system.

New EMS Licensing Board takes charge

The law creates a seven‑member EMS Licensing Board. It now decides who gets EMS licenses. Members are appointed by the existing EMS board with the Public Safety Commissioner. Maine EMS runs the licensing process. Beginning July 1, 2025, the state provides $20,000 in FY 2026‑27 for board travel, legal help, and expert witnesses.

EMS licensing fees and dedicated fund

The board sets and collects fees for licenses, applications, exams, courses, and related charges. Maine EMS keeps this money in a dedicated, nonlapsing fund. The State Treasurer holds and invests the fund, and interest stays in the fund.

Removes outdated EMS law sections

The law deletes two sets of older EMS rules from state law. This cleans up the statutes to match the new licensing system.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Joseph M. Baldacci

    Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

  • Chip Curry

    Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

Actions Timeline

  1. ACTPUB Chapter 491

    5/1/2026

  2. On motion by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin taken from the Special Appropriations Table PASSED TO BE ENACTED in concurrence.

    6/25/2025Senate

  3. On motion by Senator ROTUNDO of Androscoggin PLACED ON THE SPECIAL APPROPRIATIONS TABLE pending ENACTMENT in concurrence

    6/11/2025Senate

  4. PASSED TO BE ENACTED. Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.

    6/10/2025House

  5. CONSENT CALENDAR - FIRST DAYUnder suspension of the rules CONSENT CALENDAR - SECOND DAY.The Bill was PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED as Amended by Committee Amendment "A" (S-325).In concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.

    6/10/2025House

  6. Report READ and ACCEPTED.READ ONCE.Committee Amendment "A" (S-325) READ and ADOPTED.Under suspension of the Rules, READ A SECOND TIME and PASSED TO BE ENGROSSED AS AMENDED BY Committee Amendment "A" (S-325).Ordered sent down forthwith for concurrence.

    6/9/2025Senate

  7. The Bill was REFERRED to the Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY.In concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH.

    5/14/2025House

  8. Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY suggested and ordered printed REFERENCE to the Committee on CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY Ordered sent down forthwith for concurrence

    5/14/2025Senate

Bill Text

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