Georgia Senate Bill SB173

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/15/23

Caption

Emergency Medical Services; hospital authorities may transfer its ambulance service license to its local governing body; provide

Impact

The implementation of SB173 could significantly reshape the regulatory landscape for ambulance services by facilitating local control over emergency medical services. This amendment is poised to enhance the operational efficiency of ambulance services by allowing local governing bodies to manage these services directly, which may better reflect the needs and circumstances of their respective communities. Advocates believe this change would lead to improved response times and better resource allocation for emergency medical services.

Summary

Senate Bill 173 aims to amend the existing laws surrounding emergency medical services in Georgia. Specifically, the bill allows hospital authorities to directly transfer their ambulance service licenses to the local governing bodies of counties and cities where they operate, provided these governing bodies can demonstrate their eligibility for the license as per state requirements. This change is intended to empower local governments and streamline the process of ambulance service operation in local areas.

Contention

However, the bill could face contention regarding the ability of local governments to manage such critical services effectively. Opponents may argue that not all local governing bodies possess the necessary expertise or resources to handle ambulance services successfully, potentially jeopardizing public safety. The ability to transfer licenses from hospital authorities to local government entities might also lead to inconsistencies in service quality and coverage, given that different localities have varying levels of readiness and capability to manage these services.