Tennessee House Bill HB0893

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Refer: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Chaptered: 4/18/23
• Passed: 4/18/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 7; Title 56; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to an assessment on ground ambulance service providers.

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it directly affects Title 5, Title 7, Title 56, Title 68, and Title 71 of the Tennessee Code Annotated. This legislative change is expected to standardize the assessment process across various ambulance service providers and improve the transparency and consistency of funding for emergency medical services. The implications of this bill can lead to enhanced and more reliable ground ambulance services statewide, addressing the critical need for effective emergency responses.

Summary

House Bill 0893 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated with specific adjustments related to the assessment of ground ambulance service providers. The bill seeks to establish a uniform assessment fee imposed on ambulance providers, calculated on a per transport basis, which is crucial for ensuring the financial viability of emergency services statewide. With a maximum fee set at twenty dollars per transport, the state aims to generate necessary revenue that supports ambulance service operations and maintains adequate service levels across Tennessee.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 0893 appears generally positive among lawmakers who emphasize the importance of sustainable funding for ambulance services. Supporters argue that this measure ensures that providers can continue operating efficiently, reflecting the state's commitment to healthcare accessibility in emergencies. However, there may be some reservations among industry stakeholders regarding the financial implications of a uniform assessment, particularly concerning how it might affect smaller providers.

Contention

Despite the overall support for HB 0893, potential points of contention could include debates about the adequacy of the proposed assessment rate and its sufficiency to meet the operational costs of ambulance services. Some members might raise concerns about whether a flat rate truly reflects the variations in service costs or transport demands across different regions of the state. This aspect of the bill could lead to discussions about the need for flexibility in how assessments are calculated to ensure fairness and sustainability in all areas of Tennessee.