Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB199

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/15/25
• Refer: 4/15/25
• Report Pass: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25

Caption

Reimbursement of emergency services under the Medical Assistance program when a patient is not transported, reporting on changes to the scope of practice of emergency medical responders and emergency medical services practitioners, and eligibility for the expenditure restraint incentive program. (FE)

Impact

The bill also requires routine reports on the evolving scope of practice for emergency medical responders and related practitioners, facilitated by the Emergency Medical Services Board. This reporting will be essential for monitoring changes in training requirements relative to advancements in emergency medical responses, ensuring that Wisconsin’s practitioners remain compliant with state and national standards. Additionally, there is a provision within AB199 that minimizes the financial strain on municipalities operating joint fire and emergency services by altering eligibility requirements for the expenditure restraint incentive program.

Summary

Assembly Bill 199, introduced in the 2025 legislative session, primarily addresses the reimbursement rates for non-transport ambulance services under the Medical Assistance program. It mandates that the Department of Health Services (DHS) revise current maximum reimbursement rates to align with those for emergency transport services, a move intended to enhance compensation for emergency medical responders who provide critical care without patient transport. This change is proposed to take effect from January 1, 2027.

Contention

The discussions surrounding AB199 reveal notable contention among lawmakers regarding the adequacy of reimbursement rates for non-transport ambulance services. Proponents believe that aligning reimbursement with transport rates will provide financial justification for essential services rendered, while opponents may raise concerns over fiscal impacts on the Medical Assistance program and local budgets. The bill's provisions concerning municipal budget exemptions in relation to expenditure restraint incentive payments may also provoke debate among stakeholders about the implications for local funding and resource allocation.