ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz signed a bill in Hoyt Lakes today allocating $30 million for rural emergency medical services (EMS). Governor Walz was joined by bill authors, Senator Judy Seeberger and Representative John Huot, state representatives, and advocates.

“When Minnesotans are faced with a medical emergency, they should expect that help will come – whether they live in Minneapolis or on the Iron Range,” said Governor Walz. “We’re strengthening rural emergency services so that there will always be someone to answer Minnesotans’ call for help. While there is still work to be done, this funding will serve as a critical first step.”

Chapter 122, House File 4738 makes provisions to and allocates money for emergency medical services. This includes the allocation of $30 million for rural EMS, with $6 million for the establishment of an alternative EMS response model pilot program and $24 million in short-term emergency aid. The bill also establishes the Office of Emergency Medical Services to replace the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board.