States & Commissioners

The Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice

The Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice is the multistate governmental body established under Section 10 of the Recognition of EMS Personnel Licensure Interstate Compact (REPLICA). The Commission administers and enforces the EMS Compact, ensures compliance among Member States, and provides a forum to address interstate matters, including coordination and dispute resolution. Acting as an instrumentality of the Compact States, the Commission represents the collective authority of its Members and advances shared policies that strengthen public protection and workforce mobility across the United States.

Commissioner Appointments

Once a state enacts the EMS Compact legislation and it is signed into law, the Governor or the Governor’s designee appoints one voting representative—known as the Commissioner—to represent that state on the Commission. In most states, the Commissioner is the senior executive-branch official responsible for EMS affairs, such as the State EMS Director, Branch Chief, or Bureau Chief. Where multiple agencies hold EMS licensing authority, the Governor designates which entity appoints the Commissioner. Each Member State holds one seat and one vote on all matters before the Commission.

Commissioners serve as public officials of their respective states while acting collectively as part of the Commission. They are responsible for representing their state’s interests, participating in public meetings, and voting on matters related to Compact operations, rules, and enforcement.

Commission Functions

In accordance with REPLICA Section 10 and the Commission’s Bylaws, the Commission performs the following core functions:

1. Rulemaking and Procedures: Develop and adopt binding rules and operating procedures necessary to administer and implement the Compact.
2. Compliance and Enforcement: Enforce Commission Rules, Operating Procedures, and Bylaws to ensure consistent implementation across Member States.
3. Dispute Resolution: Provide a structured mechanism for resolving interstate issues or disagreements among Member States related to Compact provisions.
4. Information Exchange: Facilitate the secure sharing of EMS licensure history, significant investigatory information, and disciplinary actions through the National EMS Coordinated Database (NEMSCD).

Through transparent governance, standardized rulemaking, and collaboration among Commissioners, the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice ensures the Compact functions effectively, maintains public trust, and supports safe, seamless interstate EMS practice.