Sen. Curry bill to improve EMS career pathways becomes law

Posted: July 19, 2023 | Criminal Justice and Public Safety

Augusta — Recently, a bill from Sen. Chip Curry, D-Belfast, to study and strengthen education and professional development for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel in Maine became law without the Governor’s signature.

Headshot of Sen. Chip Curry
Sen. Chip Curry

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to my fellow legislators for their support of LD 244,” said Sen. Curry. “This is the beginning of a dedicated effort to strengthen EMS career pathways, meet our workforce challenges, and ultimately enhance the quality and reliability of emergency medical services in our communities.”

LD 244 —  “Resolve, Directing Maine Emergency Medical Services to Convene a Stakeholder Group to Explore Emergency Medical Services Career Pathways and Educational Opportunities in the State”— is based on a recommendation from the Blue Ribbon Commission to study Emergency Medical Services in the State, which Sen. Curry co-chaired. The bill creates a workgroup to address workforce recruitment and retention of EMS professionals in Maine.

The workgroup will be made up of representatives from:

  • Maine EMS,
  • Maine Community College System,
  • University of Maine System,
  • Public and private entities that provide EMS educational or training programs in Maine, and
  • Individuals with relevant backgrounds and experiences in EMS education and training.

The workgroup will explore the barriers to EMS education and professional development to better design and coordinate Maine’s educational and training options.

LD 244 will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die.