MADISON, Wis. — Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced Tuesday they would give $32 million in EMS Flex Grants to EMS providers across Wisconsin.

That investment is over double what the administration promised in the 2022 State of the State address, which was $12 million. This comes based on a substantial need in communities across the state, after over 400 EMS providers requested more than $63 million in support.

“For years, our local partners have been asked to do more with less, and so many communities have had to cut back on services like public safety across our state. Our EMS providers are often the first on the scene, providing critical care when we need them the most — especially over these past few years — and I know these folks are stretched thin,” said Gov. Evers. “This funding is going to provide much needed support to our EMS providers across the state to help ensure they have the tools and resources they need to meet the needs in their communities and continue their life-saving work.” 

The funding will help providers — especially in rural communities — with staffing support, training for first responders and the purchasing of new supplies, medical equipment and vehicles.

“Getting these funds out quickly into the community is a top priority so that people can get emergency medical care when they need it most,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake.

In addition to the $32 million, another $7.4 million will go toward implementing a 16% rate increase for emergency transportation providers through the Wisconsin Medicaid program. Earlier this year, Evers also gave $22 million to support fire station construction and expansion, EMS and emergency medical response program support and expansion projects, and other permanent infrastructure in eight Wisconsin communities.

Since February, Evers has given more than $69 million in support to Wisconsin EMS providers. There are nearly 800 providers in the state; more than 450 of them are solely volunteer or operating with a combination of volunteers, part-time and full-time staff.

You can find the full list of EMS Flex Grant recipients here.