Eric Emery

Eric Emery is an American politician affiliated with the Democratic Party, currently serving as a member of the South Dakota House of Representatives for District 26A. In addition to his legislative role, he is an experienced emergency medical services (EMS) professional, holding the position of program director for the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Ambulance Service. Emery's work in the legislature focuses on rural health initiatives, the sustainability of EMS systems, and the establishment of EMS as an essential service within the state.

Early life and career

Eric Emery's background is rooted in emergency medical services, where he has dedicated a significant portion of his career. He serves as the program director for the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Ambulance Service, located in Rosebud, South Dakota. In this capacity, he is responsible for overseeing various aspects of the ambulance service, including staffing, fleet modernization, and the integration of EMS with both rural and tribal health systems. His professional experience in EMS has provided him with a deep understanding of the challenges and needs associated with providing emergency medical care in rural areas, particularly within tribal communities.

Emery's expertise in the field of EMS extends beyond local administration. From 2015 to 2021, he was a member of the National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council (NEMSAC). This council plays a crucial role in advising the United States Department of Transportation on national EMS policy, and Emery's participation reflects his commitment to improving emergency medical services at a national level. His involvement with NEMSAC allowed him to contribute to discussions surrounding EMS policy, ensuring that the unique challenges faced by rural EMS providers were considered in broader policy decisions.

In addition to his administrative and advisory roles, Emery has also engaged with the public on issues related to rural EMS. He has appeared on platforms such as the American Medical Association’s Ethics Talk podcast, where he discussed the challenges faced by rural EMS systems and the importance of supportive policies. Through these various roles, Emery has built a reputation as a knowledgeable advocate for emergency medical services and rural health care.

Legislative service

Emery's political career began with his election to the South Dakota House of Representatives for District 26A in 2022. He officially took office on January 10, 2023, succeeding Shawn Bordeaux. Since his election, Emery has been actively involved in legislative activities, focusing on issues that align with his professional background in emergency medical services and rural health care.

In the South Dakota Legislature, Emery has concentrated on several key areas, including the sustainability of EMS systems, rural health care access, and the recognition of EMS as an essential public service. His legislative efforts reflect his commitment to improving health care delivery in underserved areas, particularly in rural and tribal communities. As a member of the House, he has taken on leadership responsibilities, serving as the Assistant Minority Leader, a position he assumed in 2025.

Emery's committee assignments further illustrate his legislative priorities. He is a member of several important committees, including House State Affairs, Health and Human Services, State-Tribal Relations, and Government Operations and Audit. These committees play a vital role in shaping legislation that impacts health care, public service, and the relationship between state and tribal governments.

In January 2025, Emery introduced House Bill 1043, which aimed to establish a state EMS fund and mandate local governments to provide EMS services. Although the bill did not pass committee, its introduction highlights Emery's ongoing efforts to advocate for the sustainability and recognition of emergency medical services in South Dakota.

Policy focus and district

Emery's policy focus is heavily influenced by his background in emergency medical services and his commitment to addressing the unique health care needs of rural and tribal populations. He has been a vocal advocate for initiatives that promote the sustainability of EMS systems, recognizing their critical role in providing timely medical care in emergency situations. His work aims to ensure that EMS is not only recognized as an essential service but also adequately funded and supported at both the state and local levels.

In addition to EMS sustainability, Emery has prioritized rural health initiatives, understanding that access to health care can be particularly challenging in less populated areas. His legislative efforts reflect a broader commitment to improving health care access and outcomes for residents of District 26A, which encompasses a diverse population, including tribal communities.

Emery's role in the South Dakota House of Representatives allows him to leverage his professional experience to inform his legislative work. His focus on tribal public health policy is particularly relevant given his position within the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Ambulance Service. This dual role enables him to advocate for policies that directly benefit the communities he serves, fostering a connection between his professional responsibilities and his legislative duties.

As a current member of the South Dakota House of Representatives, Emery continues to work on initiatives that aim to enhance the quality of health care and emergency services in his district and beyond. His ongoing commitment to rural health, EMS sustainability, and tribal public health policy positions him as a significant figure in South Dakota's legislative landscape, particularly in matters concerning public health and emergency medical services.