Tennessee House Bill HB0981

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/22/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Chaptered: 5/3/23
• Passed: 5/3/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 68, Chapter 140, Part 3, relative to the Tennessee emergency medical services board.

Impact

The proposed changes under HB 0981 are expected to impact the regulatory structure governing emergency medical services significantly. By updating the statutes associated with the Tennessee Emergency Medical Services Board, the bill aims to streamline processes and enhance the effectiveness of the board's operations. The amendments are anticipated to improve the quality and responsiveness of emergency medical services, ultimately benefiting the communities that rely on these critical services during emergencies.

Summary

House Bill 0981 seeks to amend certain provisions of the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the Emergency Medical Services Board. The bill aims to update the governance and operational frameworks of emergency medical services in the state to enhance oversight, accountability, and overall service delivery in emergency situations. Through this amendment, the bill emphasizes the state's commitment to improving emergency response capabilities and ensuring that medical services are adequately regulated and supported.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0981 appears to be generally supportive among health professionals and emergency service providers. Stakeholders recognize the importance of having a robust framework that governs emergency medical services. However, there may also be concerns regarding the implications of the amendments on funding and resources for local emergency services, particularly in rural areas. While many acknowledge the necessity of the updates, there are calls for careful consideration of resource allocation to ensure equity in service delivery across the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 0981 center on the potential for increased oversight and regulation to affect the operational flexibility of local emergency services. Some advocates fear that by imposing stricter regulatory measures, the bill could hinder the ability of local providers to respond effectively to specific community needs. This concern is compounded by the ongoing discussions about funding sources and the adequacy of resources allocated to enforce the new measures. Balancing state oversight with local autonomy will be critical as the bill progresses.