STATEHOUSE (Feb. 2, 2026) – A bill authored by State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) that would classify emergency medical services as essential under Indiana law was passed by the House of Representatives.
O'Brien said House Bill 1251 passed the House unanimously with an 83-0 vote, receiving bipartisan support.
HB 1215 formally recognizes EMS as an essential public service, like police and fire departments. O'Brien said during Monday's vote that this classification makes a clear and important statement— ambulance services are not optional or secondary, but a critical public safety mechanism.
"This bill is about strengthening public safety and boosting emergency response," O'Brien said. "On a person's worst day when they need to call for an ambulance, they deserve to have the peace of mind of knowing that one will show up. This is a step forward for all Hoosiers with positive impacts especially in rural areas."
O'Brien said his bill would also have county commissioners identify unserved areas and contract with providers to establish EMS services.
O'Brien authored a law in 2024 to have the Indiana Department of Homeland Security conduct a comprehensive overview of EMS services across the state. The report found significant gaps in EMS staffing levels across districts, notable variation in basic and advanced life support services across counties, including no coverage in some townships, and difficulty recruiting and retaining EMS workers in certain areas.
House Bill 1251 now moves to the Senate for consideration. To learn more about the bill and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) represents House District 78,
which includes portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
