Tennessee House Bill HB0194

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23

Caption

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

Impact

The impact of this bill on state laws includes a potential shift in how emergency medical services are governed in Tennessee. With fewer required meetings, the board might have reduced opportunities for direct discussion and decision-making in areas that could affect emergency service regulations. Proponents of the bill argue that the change may lead to greater efficiency and a more focused approach to board responsibilities, while critics may raise concerns about the adequacy of oversight with fewer meetings.

Summary

House Bill 194 (HB0194) amends the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the Tennessee Emergency Medical Services Board. The primary change proposed by the bill is to alter the frequency of board meetings, decreasing the mandated minimum from two meetings per year to one meeting per quarter. This legislative adjustment is intended to streamline the operation of the board while maintaining oversight of emergency medical services in the state. By requiring fewer meetings, the goal is to allow for more efficient use of resources and time for board members and staff.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB0194 might include the balance between efficient governance and sufficient oversight in emergency medical services. The reduction in meeting frequency could lead to debates among stakeholders regarding the implications for responsiveness to urgent issues in medical emergencies, especially considering the evolving nature of healthcare needs and emergency responses. As such, existing concerns about emergency preparedness and the quality of care provided across the state may also be heightened.