The California Tactical EMS (CTEMS) Advisory Committee was initially formed in 2013 to share information and best practices statewide among Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) leaders.  The committee is designed to collaborate and harmonize the efforts of State and local agencies, groups, individuals, and training programs representing law enforcement, emergency medical services, and fire service centered around tactical emergency medical services.  Through the cooperative efforts of law enforcement, fire service, and EMS, the committee can identify a shared direction for the improvement of TEMS activities in California.  The formation of this committee was inspired by Ken Whitman, POST Special Consultant, who championed the multi-disciplinary nature of tactical EMS.  As a tribute, this committee is nicknamed the Whitman Committee.

This committee was formalized upon the passage of AB1598 (Rodriguez, Statutes of 2014) that added Health and Safety Code 1797.116 and 1797.134 effective January 1, 2015.  Dr. Howard Backer, Director of the California EMS Authority, has formally designated the California Tactical EMS Advisory Committee as the body responsible, under Health and Safety Code 1797.134, for carrying out the activities described in Health and Safety Code 1797.116.

CTEMS Committee Members