CT
Connecticut Senate Bill SB00559

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00559

Introduced
1/18/23  

Caption

An Act Requiring The Office Of Emergency Medical Services To Pay Volunteer Ambulance Companies For Responding To Calls On Certain Highways And Sections Of Highways.

Impact

The introduction of SB00559 has potential implications for state funding and the operational dynamics of volunteer ambulance services. By allocating financial support specifically for responding to calls on high-traffic highways, the state could bolster the readiness and efficiency of volunteer services that are often strained under budget constraints. This legislation highlights the state's commitment to ensuring that emergency medical services are adequately funded and allowed to operate effectively. It may also set a precedent for future funding initiatives aimed at enhancing public health services.

Summary

SB00559 aims to enhance the support provided to volunteer ambulance companies by requiring the Office of Emergency Medical Services to pay these companies a fee for responding to emergency calls on specific highways. The proposed legislation stipulates that for each emergency call responded to on designated limited-access highways, the Berlin Turnpike, and a portion of Route 8, volunteer companies would receive a payment of five hundred dollars. This bill is driven by the need to recognize the valuable services provided by volunteer emergency responders, especially in high-traffic areas where timely medical assistance is crucial.

Contention

While the bill seems to have the support of those who recognize the importance of emergency medical services, there may be points of contention concerning the sustainability of funding. Questions could arise regarding how the state will finance these payments, especially in times of budget shortfalls. Additionally, some may argue that all ambulance companies, not just volunteer units, should receive support to ensure equitable access to emergency services throughout the state. The focus on limited access highways might also prompt discussions on whether similar support should be extended to other critical areas not covered by this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05483

An Act Establishing And Transferring Various Functions To A Division Of Fire Services Administration Within The Department Of Emergency Services And Public Protection, Revising The Powers And Composition Of The Commission On Fire Prevention And Control And Establishing A Working Group.

CT HB05264

An Act Concerning Volunteer Fire Departments And Ambulance Companies And The Definition Of Employer Under The State Occupational Safety And Health Act.

CT SB00084

An Act Establishing A Personal Income Tax Deduction For Stipends Paid To Certain Volunteer Firefighters Or Volunteer Ambulance Members.

CT HB05028

An Act Establishing A Personal Income Tax Deduction For Stipends Paid To Volunteer Firefighters And Volunteer Ambulance Members.

CT HB05071

An Act Establishing A Personal Income Tax Deduction For Stipends Paid To Volunteer Firefighters And Volunteer Ambulance Members.

CT SB00179

An Act Concerning Rates For Ambulance And Paramedic Services.

CT HB05281

An Act Allowing A Personal Income Tax Deduction For Stipends Paid To Volunteer Firefighting Or Emergency Medical Services Personnel.

CT HB05279

An Act Concerning Authority To Declare That A Firefighter, Police Officer Or Emergency Medical Service Personnel Died In The Line Of Duty.

CT HB05490

An Act Concerning The Sales And Use Taxes On Ambulance-type Motor Vehicles And Ambulances.

CT HB05460

An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Ambulance Services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.