Grants to EMS providers

Cities and townships might soon be able to make grants to first responders, just as they are able to do now for hospitals.

Rep. Carolyn McElfatrick (R-Deer River) sponsors HF2861 that would allow local governments to make grants to emergency medical services agencies that serve their communities. The grants would have to be authorized by the local town board or city council.

“This is not a mandate. This is an option for our local governments,” she said, adding that the need to contribute money to first responders is a concern for many Greater Minnesota communities.

The House passed the bill 113-14. It now awaits actions by the full Senate. Sen. Tom Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids) is the Senate sponsor.

McElfatrick said she knew of no organized opposition to the bill. Still, some members expressed concern that public grant money could end up in the hands of private organizations.

“The grant is not free money. The grant is taxpayer money, and is that an appropriate use of taxpayer money?” said Rep. Mark Buesgens (R-Savage).