House Bill 116 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Ed OliverRepresentative

Republican

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Volunteer Rescue Squad Tuition Reimbursement Program; to permit EMS regional agencies to participate in education instruction

Summary

HB116 would expand the Volunteer Rescue Squad Tuition Reimbursement Program to include the Alabama Department of Public Health’s regional EMS agencies as eligible education providers and update rules for EMS student tuition reimbursement.

What This Bill Does

It authorizes the ADPH regional EMS agencies to offer EMS education under the program and participate in tuition reimbursement alongside ACCS member schools, the Alabama Fire College, and the University of South Alabama. Tuition costs can be paid by the student or the sponsoring organization, and reimbursements are paid directly to the sponsoring organization (the volunteer rescue squad, volunteer fire department, ambulance service, or association). After completing the approved course, passing the certification exam, obtaining an EMSP license, and signing a two-year service contract, the student triggers the tuition reimbursement; if the service requirement is not met, the student must repay the reimbursed tuition plus 8% interest. Additional provisions cover funding distribution, caps, admin cost limits, reporting, and a October 1, 2026 effective date.

Who It Affects

• EMS students enrolled in eligible programs at ACCS member institutions, the Alabama Fire College, the University of South Alabama, or ADPH regional EMS agencies who would be eligible for tuition reimbursement if they meet program requirements and service obligations.
• Volunteer fire departments, volunteer rescue squads, ambulance services, and related associations that sponsor or employ the students; they would receive reimbursements and must ensure students fulfill their service commitments (with oversight and potential repayment if not).

Key Provisions

• Adds the Alabama Department of Public Health regional EMS agencies as eligible educational institutions to participate in the tuition reimbursement program.
• Sets up joint administration of the program by ACCS, the Alabama Fire College, USA, and designated EMS regional agencies.
• Tuition costs reimbursed cover tuition and fees for EMSP certification; reimbursements are paid to the sponsoring organization and do not include costs covered by grants or scholarships.
• Requires completion of the approved course, passing the certification exam, obtaining an EMSP license, and a service contract to work two years; failure to meet service requirements triggers repayment with 8% interest.
• From the 2023-2024 fiscal year, reimbursement funds are distributed among volunteer fire departments, rescue squads, and ambulance services based on appropriations, with priority to volunteer groups and nonprofit services; a cap on regional agency reimbursements will mirror the Fire College cap; administrative expenses are limited to 10% of annual funding.
• ADPH must adopt credentialing and accreditation standards for private instructors and providers teaching through regional EMS agencies, equal to standards of other eligible institutions.
• An annual report by ACCS on program condition and participation, including funds reimbursed, to the Governor and legislative leaders; the program requires a joint agreement to manage operations and potential limits on applications when needed.
• Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 11, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Education