# What the Paramedic and Emergency Medical Technician Relief Act Does

This bill creates a new temporary work visa program specifically for foreign paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to work in the United States. Right now, there's no clear immigration pathway for these healthcare workers, so this bill establishes what's called an "H-1D visa" to bring them in on a temporary basis to fill staffing gaps in emergency medical services.

Here's how it would work in practice: A hospital, ambulance service, or fire department that needs paramedics or EMTs could sponsor foreign workers through this program. The foreign worker would need to have proper training and pass licensing exams in their intended state of employment within 12 weeks before starting work. They'd also need to pass background checks and security screenings. The employer would have to file paperwork with the Department of Labor, pay a filing fee (up to $250), and make certain promises about how they'll treat the foreign worker—essentially swearing that they won't use this program to undercut American workers' wages or working conditions.

The bill includes several protections for American workers. Employers can't hire more than 15 percent of their paramedic or EMT workforce through this visa program, meaning they have to keep most of their staff as American workers. Foreign workers must be paid the same wages as similarly employed American workers at that employer, and employers must show they've tried to recruit American workers first. The program caps the total number of these visas at 2,500 per year, with only 1,250 allowed in the first half of each year. Workers can stay for three years initially and potentially extend for another three years.

The bill also sets up enforcement mechanisms. The Department of Labor will investigate complaints if employers aren't following the rules, and violations can result in fines up to $10,000 and a ban on hiring through this program for at least a year. Both departments must report to Congress annually on how the program is working, including information about wages, compliance issues, and any fraud. This is designed to ensure the program actually addresses genuine staffing shortages rather than becoming a way for employers to avoid hiring and training American emergency medical workers.