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Committee moves Emergency Medical Services program toward transfer to Military Division; funding adjustments and staff moves approved for transition
Summary
The committee approved reductions to the Department of Health and Welfare base and approved funding to establish the Emergency Medical Services program in the Military Division, including ongoing funding for a part‑time medical director and one‑time transition costs.
The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee took steps March 12 to effect a planned transfer of the state Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program from the Department of Health and Welfare to the Idaho Military Division as part of the recently passed House Bill 206.
Frances Lippitt and other analysts explained that the transfer requires reductions in the public health base appropriation and corresponding additions in the Military Division budget. The committee considered motions to reduce the Health and Welfare base by a total reduction of $7,459,932.80 and to move certain federal funds and FTP related to preparedness and response to the physical health services program.
Senator Bierke moved funding into the Military Division to create a new EMS budgeted program. The motion included $156,400 from the General Fund, $6,866,500 from dedicated funds, and $180,000 from federal funds for a total of $7,202,900 and an additional 30.84 FTP to the Military Division's EMS program; a subsequent motion added $60,000 ongoing from the General Fund and $150,000 one‑time from dedicated funds to fund a part‑time medical director and transition costs.
Supporters said the Military Division's Office of Emergency Management already handles back‑up dispatch, HazMat and rural EMS support and that EMS will have a more operational, mission‑oriented home under the adjutant general. Members discussed potential overlaps should the companion bill fail in the other chamber, and staff noted they would address conflicts if they arise.
The joint committee recorded votes; some motions failed to achieve a Senate majority and were sent to the Senate for separate handling, and other parts recorded a due‑pass recommendation. The committee directed that transition details and remaining items be handled consistent with inter‑chamber procedures.
Committee members also approved a one‑time $150,000 dedicated fund appropriation to support transition costs and ongoing funding for a medical director in the new program.
