New Michigan law extends temporary licenses to 1 year for EMS trainees

By Sarah Roebuck
EMS1

LANSING, Mich. — Two bills recently signed by Michigan’s governor aim to address the ambulance service’s staffing crisis.

HB-4613 and HB-4614signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on July 23, extended the “temporary licenses” for EMS providers from 120 days to 1 year, according to WJRTThe updated language in the bills allows the state to issue temporary one-year licenses to trainees who complete all requirements except their exams.

“You don’t have to work in an ambulance or an emergency room for long before you see how devastating staffing shortages can be,” Rep. Prestin said. “Allowing trained EMTs and paramedics to continue doing their jobs while they go through the licensing process is a common-sense policy change that will have a major impact.”

These bills would allow first responders to focus more on serving Michigan residents by increasing the number of first responders on the streets each day. Whitmer’s office said.

“This bill is a step forward in ensuring strong emergency services in every region of our state,” said Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming). “With this bill becoming law, our hometowns can better recruit and train our emergency medical professionals. This bipartisan effort is a commitment to strengthening our public safety and health.”