Committee backs local EMS training for volunteer rescue squads

Representative Oliver told the committee HB116 would amend an existing tuition‑reimbursement program to allow regional EMS councils to arrange local, state‑certified instruction for volunteer rescue squad and rural EMS personnel who cannot attend two‑year schools full time. "The point of the bill is to let rural fire departments, ambulance services, or EMS services, train EMS personnel locally rather than have them have to go to the fire college or to a two‑year school for that training," the sponsor said.

Sponsor said the change would use existing funds and would require instructors and programs to be state certified. Representative Drummond asked whether locally delivered programs would meet the same qualifications as college‑based programs; sponsor confirmed the programs must be state certified and taught by appropriately qualified instructors.

Committee members generally supported expanding local access to training; Representative Glover moved to give the bill a favorable report and the motion carried by voice vote. The sponsor acknowledged a possible increase in expenditures but said the magnitude was unknown and no opposition was recorded in committee.

The committee record does not include a detailed fiscal estimate or a named roll call; staff indicated the program would be administered through regional EMS councils and the Alabama Community College System, Alabama Fire College and University of South Alabama remain listed as existing reimbursement recipients in current statute.