The initial work on the EMS Compact began in 2012 with the goal of developing a model interstate compact for states’ to use to solve the problem associated with day-to-day deployment of EMS personnel across state boundaries. Examples of day-to-day deployments include, but are not limited to:
The project was inspired by the interstate compacts that made it possible for multi-state recognition of nursing licenses and state drivers’ licenses on short term and/or condition-limited bases.
In January and March 2013 the National Advisory Panel met to guide the early process of Compact development and to create a structure to guide and protect the process.
The NAP served to guide the early policy analysis and formulate recommendations, which included:
The NAP consisted of 23 individuals representing 23 stakeholder organizations. Issues and stakeholder experts from EMS agencies, federal partners and the EMS Industry included:
The Drafting Team met in June, August and October of 2013 and was composed of compact and other subject matter experts, a national group with diverse representation. This team was charged with crafting the Compacts language based the NAP guidance and within a structured, time-tested process. The Drafting Team consisted of :
The Drafting Team developed the Compacts language and model legislation that was approved and released for consideration as well as adoption state by state in June 2014. Key elements of the Compact include, but are not limited to:
Since the model was released, twelve states have passed REPLICA’s legislation. In order to activate the compact, passage by a total of ten state legislatures was necessary. An Advocate was hired to support the development of strategies to get REPLICA legislation introduced, passed and signed by the Governor of each state. The Advocate and associated activities are supported through a grant to NASEMSO from the NREMT. Simultaneously, on-site and remote meetings with REPLICA states, friends of and staff are being held to prepare for the next phase, standing up the REPLICA Commission.
In anticipation of adoption by the required ten states, a level of technical assistance, training and staff support to full operation, or transition was put in place in August of 2016.
The inaugural meeting of the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, the governing body of the EMS Compact, met on October 7 – 8, 2017 in Oklahoma City, OK.