Bill targets EMT shortage with $50M yearly grants and veteran licensing aid
In committeeH.R. 2220Latest action
Sponsor: Marie Gluesenkamp Perez · Representative · WA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: PARA–EMT Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Health care
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
HR 2220 would spend up to $50M/year on EMS hiring and training grants, plus $20M/year to help veterans get civilian EMT licenses.
60-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 2220 would create a federal grant program giving EMS and ambulance agencies up to $1 million each to hire, train, and retain EMTs and paramedics. Eligible uses include training programs, apprenticeships, mental health support, and high school recruitment. A separate provision would help states cover the licensing and testing costs veterans face when transitioning their military medical training to civilian EMS credentials.
Who does it affect?
The bill directly affects current and future EMTs and paramedics, EMS agencies especially in rural areas, and veterans with military medical training. Anyone who may someday need emergency medical care is also among those affected.
Why does it matter?
The bill responds to a documented national shortage of EMTs and paramedics, and directs the Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services to study how severe that shortage is expected to be through 2034. Without action, gaps in emergency medical staffing could affect response capacity, particularly in rural communities where at least 20 percent of grants would be directed.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- EMS agency grants: $50M/year, 2026–2030
- Veteran licensing aid: $20M/year
- Rural agencies get at least 20% of grants
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMar 18, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Mar 18, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.