Wisconsin is facing an EMS workforce shortage that is putting communities at risk. Many local departments—especially in rural areas—struggle to recruit and retain emergency medical personnel due to high training costs and limited funding. This shortage means longer response times and fewer available responders when families need help the most.

To address this, Assembly Republicans authored and passed a package of bills focused on rebuilding and strengthening Wisconsin’s EMS system. Assembly Bill 198 creates two key programs to expand access to EMS training and modernize emergency response. The first establishes a state-administered tuition and materials reimbursement program for individuals completing initial EMS certification or licensure, ensuring that training costs are no longer a barrier to entering the field. The second provides grants to technical colleges that offer EMS programs, helping them expand class capacity, update training equipment, and keep these essential classes available. Together, these initiatives will grow Wisconsin’s EMS workforce pipeline, increase the number of training opportunities statewide, and make it easier for new recruits to serve as first responders.