On February 12, the House passed the Veteran Emergency Medical Technician Support Act of 2013 (HR 235) by voice vote. The legislation would provide $1 million for a five-year grant program to assist states in streamlining requirements for veterans who received medical training during their service and want to become emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Under the grant program, states would assess how closely military medical training aligns with state requirements and identify methods to streamline EMT licensing, such as waivers or reduced training requirements. In order to be eligible for grant funds, states will have to demonstrate a shortage of certified EMTs. The bill will now go to the Senate for consideration.

Link: HR 235