Texas Senate Bill SB1493

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to emergency medical air transportation funding.

Impact

The implementation of SB1493 is expected to enhance the financial stability of emergency air transportation services across Texas. By providing reimbursements to air ambulance providers, the bill aims to alleviate some of the burdens these services face, thereby improving access to urgent medical care for patients in remote or underserved regions. This funding could ultimately lead to better healthcare outcomes by ensuring that patients can be transported swiftly to appropriate facilities when time is of the essence.

Summary

SB1493 is an act aimed at establishing dedicated funding for emergency medical air transportation within the state of Texas. The bill amends Chapter 773 of the Health and Safety Code by introducing a new subchapter specifically focused on emergency medical air transportation funding. This legislation creates an Emergency Medical Air Transportation Account within the general revenue fund, which will receive its funding from a specified percentage of revenue collected as outlined in the Transportation Code. The intent is to ensure that air ambulance services can receive necessary financial support to operate effectively, especially in critical emergencies where transport is essential.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1493, although not detailed in the available snippets, may revolve around concerns regarding the source of funding for the new account and how it impacts existing state resources. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the balance between providing adequate support for air transportation while ensuring that funds are not diverted from other critical health services. Legislators and stakeholders may have differing opinions on the sustainability and efficiency of this funding model, which could become points of debate as the bill progresses.