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Hennepin County delays EMS staffing change, forms year-long task force to study governance and funding
Summary
After providers warned a return to two‑paramedic staffing would force ambulance reductions, the board suspended that portion of Ordinance 9 through 2027 and directed a task force to study Hennepin EMS governance and funding for one year.
Hennepin County commissioners voted to suspend a proposed amendment to Ordinance 9 that would have reimposed a two‑paramedic staffing requirement for ALS ambulances, instead creating a year‑long task force to study the governance and funding of the county's EMS system.
The health committee heard testimony from county EMS providers that reinstating two‑paramedic staffing could force some providers to reduce their available ambulances by as much as 50 percent, worsening 911 response capacity in some service areas. Several providers and medical directors told the committee that staffing requirements must reflect the medical needs of particular patient populations.
The substitute motion — moved by the committee chair — keeps the operational staffing status quo under state minimums (at least one paramedic and one EMT per ALS ambulance) through Dec. 31, 2027, and convenes a task force to study governance, funding and sustainability of Hennepin EMS. Assistant County Administrator Holly told commissioners the study is intended to be budget‑neutral and to give time to assess capacity, staffing and system governance.
Commissioners emphasized the need to include EMS providers, union representatives and regionally distributed stakeholders on the task force. Commissioner Lundy suggested the study examine alternative regional or consolidated models as part of long‑range planning. The substitute motion passed by voice vote.
The task force will report back to the county board within one year with findings and recommendations.
