Arkansas EMS leaders advocate for adopting the national EMS compact

On February 27, 2025, the Arkansas House Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee convened to discuss significant advancements in emergency medical services (EMS) through the proposed adoption of the EMS Compact. This initiative aims to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness across the state by allowing licensed EMS professionals to operate across state lines more effectively.

The meeting featured a presentation from a prominent EMS medical director, who emphasized the importance of the compact for Arkansas, which currently stands isolated among its neighboring states that have already adopted similar agreements. With 24 states participating in the EMS Compact, the director highlighted that Arkansas's involvement would provide immediate benefits, particularly for underserved border communities that often lack adequate EMS services.

Key advantages of joining the EMS Compact include improved access to licensed personnel during emergencies, enhanced cooperation and information sharing among member states, and streamlined processes for transitioning military EMS personnel to civilian roles. The director pointed out that the compact would also address significant gaps in accountability, allowing Arkansas to vet the disciplinary histories of EMS professionals from other states, thereby ensuring higher standards of care and safety for its citizens.

The discussion underscored the compact's potential to bolster community resilience in disaster response and improve the overall flexibility of EMS operations. By enabling licensed professionals from neighboring states to respond to emergencies without the need for a formal disaster declaration, Arkansas could significantly enhance its emergency response capabilities.

In addition to the EMS Compact, the committee has been reviewing multiple occupational licensure compacts, with the EMS Compact being deemed the most consequential for public health and safety. The meeting concluded with a call for support from various EMS organizations and stakeholders across the state, all advocating for Arkansas to become the 25th state to join this vital initiative.

As the committee continues to deliberate on this proposal, the implications of adopting the EMS Compact could reshape the landscape of emergency medical services in Arkansas, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and safety for its residents.