Connecticut House Bill HB05566

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11

Caption

An Act Exempting Nonprofit Volunteer Ambulance Services From State Insurance Requirements.

Impact

The bill, if enacted, would have significant implications for nonprofit volunteer ambulance services by allowing them to operate without being subjected to the stringent insurance requirements typically imposed on organizations involved in the provision of insurance. This change is particularly important for those services that have been providing subscription-based emergency medical services since before January 1, 2009. The legislative intent is to support these organizations in sustaining their operations and ensuring continued service delivery to local communities.

Summary

House Bill 05566 is designed to exempt nonprofit volunteer ambulance services from state insurance requirements, specifically under section 38a-41 of the general statutes. This legislation aims to facilitate the operation of these services, which provide emergency medical services to residents on a subscription basis. By exempting such services from being classified as engaging in the business of insurance, the bill intends to alleviate regulatory burdens that could hinder the ability of these nonprofits to function effectively within their municipalities.

Contention

While proponents of HB 05566 highlight the necessity of supporting volunteer ambulance services, there may be concerns regarding the implications of exempting these services from insurance regulations. Critics could argue that such exemptions might lead to a lack of oversight and accountability, potentially compromising the quality of emergency medical care. However, supporters assert that these nonprofits have established a reliable track record within their communities prior to the proposed changes, thus justifying the need for this exemption.