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We never know when we may need to count on them, but when we do, including during the holidays, paramedics, EMTs and first responders are ready to provide care to our neighbors at a moment?s notice. Unfortunately, due to declining revenues and struggles to recruit and retain personnel, many departments that provide ambulance services in Minnesota are in crisis.?
As I mentioned last month, Speaker Melissa Hortman recently appointed me to serve as the chair of a new Task Force on Emergency Medical Services. The task force will examine new ways the Legislature can strengthen the lifesaving services EMS personnel provide and protect the viability of providers. We are digging deep in a bipartisan fashion to solve the challenges those providers of emergency medical services are facing.
We're traveling across the state to develop strategies from the input we receive, so we can share them with the full legislature. Minnesotans need to know that when they can call 911, there will be an immediate response. We?ve already had two public hearings, including a packed room last week in Mountain Iron.
 It?s extremely valuable to hear directly from EMTs and other first responders most impacted by this crisis. Our next stop will be in Elbow Lake in early January.
Please continue to reach out with questions, input, or ideas on any issue important to you. The legislative session begins on February 12 and your feedback is important.
Stay safe this holiday season,
John
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