House File 93 would fund earn-while-you-learn EMT pipeline; Mayo Clinic pilot reported strong retention

Representative Backer presented House File 93 on Feb. 24 to establish an “earn-while-you-learn” EMT grant program administered by the Office of Emergency Medical Services. The bill would target ambulance services with a staffing profile (at least 50% EMTs) and aims to fund up to 100 trainee positions per year so students can earn a livable wage while completing EMT training.

Tyler Boss, an EMT at Mayo Clinic who testified as a program graduate, described earning a full-time wage during training as “essential” and credited the program with allowing him to focus on learning and enter the workforce. Dan Anger, director of education and training for Mayo Clinic Ambulance, described a Mayo pilot launched in August 2024 that selected eight candidates from more than 40 applicants in the Austin–Albert Lea region; all eight completed the national registry exam and accepted full-time positions. Anger said the pilot improved recruitment and retention and that the earn-while-you-learn model allowed trainees to support themselves while completing training.

Representative Backer said the bill would appropriate $750,000 in fiscal 2026 and $750,000 in fiscal 2027 with the goal of establishing an ongoing program. Committee members asked whether the appropriation was intended to be recurring and whether a specific hourly wage clause might bind future adjustments; Backer said the intent is ongoing funding but acknowledged statutory hourly rates may need review.

Dan Anger said Mayo Clinic does not require a post-training employment contract and uses a competitive hiring interview process after training; he said the pilot’s retention and pass rates justify continued use of the model. Representative Backer said the committee would seek data on regional needs and that Director Ferguson can provide EMS staffing and PSA data to members.

House File 93 was laid over for possible inclusion in the omnibus bill.