State Senator Jeremy Miller (R-Winona) today praised the recent distribution of over $950,000 in emergency assistance to rural ambulance services across southeastern Minnesota. The funds, part of a $30 million bipartisan aid package passed in 2024, will help local EMS providers continue delivering life-saving services to residents in rural communities.
“When someone calls 911, they aren’t thinking about logistics or budgets. They just need help,” said Senator Miller. “Emergency responders work tirelessly to save lives, often in challenging conditions, and this funding is a testament to their importance in our communities. It’s also proof of what can happen when we put politics aside and focus on solving problems together. I hope we can build on this kind of cooperation moving forward.”
In southeast Minnesota, the following ambulance services will receive funding:
- Caledonia Ambulance: $103,879.27
- Harmony Volunteer Ambulance: $73,375.51
- Houston Community Ambulance: $67,038.05
- Lewiston Ambulance: $71,975.33
- Mabel Ambulance Service: $56,952.84
- Preston Emergency Service: $98,751.15
- Rushford Community Ambulance: $91,394.99
- Spring Grove Ambulance Service: $54,153.84
- Spring Valley Area Ambulance: $108,598.37
- Winona Area Ambulance Service, Inc.: $133,931.98
The $30 million rural EMS aid package includes $24 million to assist ambulance services facing financial strain and $6 million for a pilot program introducing sprint medics to enhance response times. The funding addresses urgent challenges, such as outdated equipment and staff shortages, that rural EMS providers have long struggled to overcome.
“This funding ensures that when emergencies happen, first responders have the tools and support they need to do their jobs,” Senator Miller said. “These are the people who keep our families safe, and they deserve every resource we can provide.”
Though the bill was spearheaded by Senate Republicans, legislators from both parties worked together to pass the bipartisan aid package, responding to recommendations from a task force that held field hearings across the state. The task force’s findings highlighted the unique challenges rural EMS providers face, including low call volumes, high costs, and gaps in federal reimbursement.
Payments were distributed to ambulance providers on December 26, 2024, and will support operational and capital expenses critical to maintaining these essential services.
For more details on the Emergency Ambulance Service Aid, visit Minnesota Department of Revenue.