📣 PETITION: Support the Responder Protection in Psychiatric Transfers Act 
Protect EMS. Protect Patients. Protect Arkansas. 
Arkansas EMS personnel are being injured during interfacility transfers of violent or unstable psychiatric patients who a physician has deemed a danger to themself or others. During patient transport there’s no advanced warning that violence is imminent. 
This has resulted in:
 • EMTs and paramedics being attacked
 • Patients harming themselves during transport
 • The current statewide rules are not effective in protecting EMS crews at the time of need 
 • EMS having no legal protection when defending themselves 
Arkansas can fix this — and protect those who protect us. 
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We, the undersigned, support the Responder Protection in Psychiatric Transfers Act because it will: 
✅ Set clear rules for when security officers must ride with EMS 
Refrain sending violent patients with only two responder crews when deemed necessary by responders  
✅ Give EMS the authority to restrain a patient who is a danger to themselves or others 
Without requiring a physician’s order. 
✅ Protect EMS legally when they must use necessary force to protect the patient or themselves 
If they must defend themselves from an assault. 
✅ Increase penalties for assaulting EMS personnel 
To reflect the danger these responders face. 
✅ Create a statewide reporting system for violent incidents 
So the problem is tracked effectively and addressed. 
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Why This Law Matters 
EMS providers respond to every crisis — but they’re being injured during transport to appropriate care facilities. This act creates safety, consistency, and accountability for everyone involved. 
This is about protecting:
 • EMS crews
 • patients in crisis
 • communities across Arkansas 
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✍️ We urge the Arkansas General Assembly to pass the Responder Protection in Psychiatric Transfers Act immediately. 
Arkansas responders deserve a safe workplace — and patients deserve safe, humane care. 
Add your name. Stand with EMS. Support this bill. 🚑💙