Illinois House Bill HB2216

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/8/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Refer: 5/19/23
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Refer: 4/5/24

Caption

LOCAL GOV-LIFT-ASSIST SERVICES

Summary

House Bill 2216 amends the Fire Protection District Act and the Illinois Municipal Code to establish a framework for municipalities and fire protection districts to charge fees for providing lift-assist services to independent living, assisted living, and nursing home facilities. The bill allows these local entities to recover costs related to the personnel and equipment used during such services, addressing both operational expenses and the potential liabilities faced by emergency responders during lift-assist interventions. The legislation specifically stipulates that the fees imposed for lift-assist services cannot exceed the actual costs incurred by fire departments or emergency services. This provision aims to create a balance between ensuring that care facilities are supported in accessing necessary emergency services and preventing excessive fee burdens that could potentially affect their operations. Additionally, HB2216 introduces a requirement for facilities to enter into written agreements concerning the reimbursement of costs for injuries that municipal or district personnel may sustain while providing lift-assist services. This aspect of the bill includes provisions for medical treatment and other compensation avenues, ensuring that personnel are supported in their duties while also holding the facilities accountable for maintaining safe environments during service delivery. Notably, concerns regarding accountability and liability-sharing could stir debate among stakeholders. While proponents argue that the bill creates a needed avenue for municipalities to recuperate costs incurred while assisting individuals, critics may raise concerns about the potential financial strain on care facilities, particularly smaller organizations that may struggle with additional operational costs. The bill thus presents a balanced yet contested approach to addressing emergency service provisions in care settings.