Senator Julia Coleman (R-Waconia) celebrated the recently announced $271,210 in state and federal aid for Carver County Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers. The funds are the result of the bipartisan $30M EMS aid package passed in 2024 as well as the federal Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) Reauthorization Act signed into law in October 2024.  

The $30M state package includes $24M in aid to extend a critical lifeline to ambulance service providers as federal reimbursement rates fall short of the total cost of care. The package also includes an innovative $6 million sprint medic pilot program, authorizing trained medical staff to be the first response in determining if an ambulance is necessary.  

“Many of our EMS providers have been struggling with outdated equipment, recruitment, and retention issues,” Coleman said. “This new funding will help address the most immediate needs facing our providers. I was glad to support the bipartisan package in the Senate last session, and I’m optimistic the federal aid will provide additional support for our providers.” 

In addition to the new state EMS package, the federal SIREN Act aims to address the unique challenges faced by rural emergency medical services (EMS). The act is designed to enhance access to life-saving care in rural areas by providing funding, resources, and support to EMS agencies that often operate with limited staff, equipment, and financial resources. 

Ridgeview Ambulance service, based in Waconia and serving all of Carver County as well as portions of neighboring counties, will receive $101,210.61 from the $30M state aid package and $170,000 from the federal SIREN Act.  The Minnesota Department of Revenue will be dispersing the state funds on December 26, 2024.