Support for 2025 Legislation

Dear Members and Board of Directors,

I am writing to express my strong support for SB 1377 by Senator Perry and HB 3000 by Representative King, which are crucial pieces of legislation providing much-needed funding for rural ambulance services across Texas. These bills aim to establish a grant program offering:

            •           Up to $500,000 for counties with a population of less than 10,000.

            •           Up to $350,000 for counties with a population of less than 68,750.

ARCIT President, Keith Umphress

As currently drafted, these funds would allow rural counties to purchase ambulances, a critical investment in emergency response infrastructure. However, I recognize that the sustainability of rural EMS services depends not just on equipment but also on the ability to staff and operate these ambulances effectively. That is why I am actively working with the bill authors to expand the scope of these grants to include funding for personnel and operational costs—ensuring that rural communities can acquire and maintain the emergency medical services they need.

The passage of these bills is not just important, it is essential to improving emergency response capabilities in rural Texas. The impact of these bills on our communities cannot be overstated. As members of the Association of Rural Communities of Texas, your support and advocacy for SB 1377 and HB 3000 will be instrumental in securing the resources needed to keep our communities safe.

I urge you to join me in supporting these bills and engaging with lawmakers to ensure their passage. Your support is crucial in this endeavor. Thank you for your dedication to the well-being of rural Texans. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if I can provide additional information.

Sincerely,

Judge Brian Keith Umphress - President, ARCIT