The Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, the government commission responsible for implementation and operations of the United States EMS Compact, has announced the results of its Executive Committee elections conducted during the Quarter 4, 2025 Commission meeting.

Commissioner Wayne Denny of Idaho was reelected to serve as Vice Chair of the Executive Committee. Commissioner Mark Herrera of Utah was elected to serve as Secretary, succeeding Commissioner Joe House of Kansas, who has termed out of the role. The Commission extends its sincere appreciation to Commissioner House for his exemplary service, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the Compact.

Under the Compact statute, each member state’s governor appoints a commissioner to represent the state on the Interstate Commission. Today, 25 states participate in the United States EMS Compact, enabling more than 450,000 EMS Clinicians to immediately practice in any Compact state using their active and unrestricted home state license. This model, similar to the driver’s license privilege system, enhances patient access, strengthens emergency preparedness, and supports workforce mobility across the nation.

The Executive Committee manages the day-to-day operations of the Commission between full meetings of the Interstate Commission. Leadership continuity is maintained through staggered elections. The Chair (Kraig Kinney, Indiana), Treasurer (Brad VandeLune, Iowa), and At Large member (Arron Koehler, Wyoming) are elected in even numbered years. The Vice Chair and Secretary elections occur in odd numbered years. The Immediate Past Chair (Joe Schmider, Texas) continues to serve on the Executive Committee until a new Chair is elected, providing stability, institutional continuity, and historical insight.

Commission Chair Kraig Kinney of Indiana stated, “The Interstate Commission plays a critical role in ensuring that EMS clinicians can respond where they are needed most. The Executive Committee provides the leadership and stability necessary to keep the Compact strong. I appreciate the dedication of the Commissioners stepping into these roles and am grateful for Commissioner Joe House’s exceptional service.”

Executive Director Donnie Woodyard, MAML, NRP, added, “The United States EMS Compact is one of the most significant advancements in modern EMS policy. It demonstrates how states can work together to improve patient care and support a mobile, ready, and resilient EMS workforce. The leaders elected today will continue shaping a national system built on accountability, collaboration, and public protection.”

For more information about the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice and the United States EMS Compact, visit the Commission’s official website.