Indiana State Rep. Tim O'Brien has authored House Bill 1251 to strengthen emergency medical services in the state. The bill passed unanimously in the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee following a 2024 review by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security that identified gaps in EMS availability and staffing.
O'Brien’s bill formally classifies EMS as an essential service, like police and fire departments. It requires county commissioners to identify gaps in underserved areas and work with providers to establish EMS stations where needed. O'Brien stated the measure will help improve response times and support first responders.
House Bill 1251 has passed the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee and will move to the House floor. Its progress can be tracked on the Indiana legislative website, with updates also available on the Indiana House Republicans news site.
O’Brien introduced House Bill 1251 following a 2024 Indiana Department of Homeland Security report that identified gaps in EMS coverage across the state. The findings informed the bill’s development and committee consideration.
