What's Being Discussed
The Hawaii Medical Board's Emergency Medical Personnel Advisory Committee (EMPAC) is holding a meeting on August 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The committee advises the Hawaii Medical Board on issues related to emergency medical personnel. Key topics include:

Reviewing the rules and laws governing EMT licensing in Hawaii, including training and certification requirements
Examining the current scope of practice for EMT-1 (Non-Transport) workers and whether it needs clearer definition
Reviewing how National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) standards apply to Hawaii licenses
Looking at current EMT application forms to see if updates are needed
Welcoming and introducing two new committee members: Aaron Mitchell and Cody Telles
Approving minutes from the last meeting held in September 2022

Decisions Expected

Possibly forming one or more working groups to research and recommend updates to EMT and Paramedic certification, training, scope of practice, and related laws
Selecting a new Committee Chair
Approving previous meeting minutes

Who Should Pay Attention

EMTs and paramedics working in or seeking licensure in Hawaii
Emergency medical services (EMS) organizations and training programs
Anyone interested in how Hawaii regulates emergency medical personnel
Members of the public can attend in person in Honolulu or virtually via Zoom, and may submit written testimony to medical@dcca.hawaii.gov