1. (1) Sections R911-6-4 through R911-6-8 do not apply to this Section R911-6-9.
2. (2) An EMS provider may apply for a critical needs grant by providing clear, quantifiable data and compelling evidence that substantiates the identified deficiency and its direct impact on the EMS system's ability to effectively serve the community.

3. (3) In determining eligibility for a critical needs grant, the grant subcommittee shall evaluate, weigh, and rank applications based on the following criteria:

   1. (a) the critical need of the applicant to improve, establish or maintain its EMS capabilities;
   2. (b) demonstrated financial need of the applicant;
   3. (c) potential impact on the ability or inability of the applicant to provide or continue to provide emergency medical services;
   4. (d) the applicant's alignment with statewide EMS priorities;
   5. (e) the availability of matching funds or other funding sources;
   6. (f) circumstances or conditions outside of the applicant's control;
   7. (g) previous awards granted to the applicant; and
   8. (h) the critical nature of the applicant's request and how it aligns with the definition of a "critical need".

4. (4) An eligible EMS provider may apply for a critical needs grant to support EMS services, including:

   1. (a) purchasing, upgrading, or replacing essential EMS equipment;
   2. (b) providing EMS training and certification programs;
   3. (c) improving EMS response capabilities, particularly in underserved or rural areas;
   4. (d) supporting EMS personnel recruitment and retention initiatives; or
   5. (e) providing short-term financial support of personnel.

5. (4)(a) The grant subcommittee may make award recommendations to the bureau quarterly if any grant applicants meet the critical needs threshold.

   1. (b) No recommendation shall exceed the availability of funds allotted for the quarter unless it can be split into multiple quarters.

   2. (c) The bureau may:

      1. (i) accept the recommendation and fund the recommendation;
      2. (ii) reduce the amount awarded;
      3. (iii) deny the recommendation;
      4. (iv) split an application for funds over two fiscal quarters; or
      5. (v) request additional clarifying information before funding the recommendation.
   3. (d) If the bureau denies a recommendation, the bureau shall send a written denial to the subcommittee chair.

KEY: emergency medical services

Date of Last Change: November 21, 2025

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 53-2d-103