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HB 209

Health; designate emergency medical services, including ambulance service, as an essential service

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Au and 3 co-sponsors

House Bill 209 designates emergency medical services as essential in Georgia, ensuring better funding and support for public health without altering existing regulations.

House Second Readers
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 209

Summary of House Bill 209

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 209
  • Title: Health; designate emergency medical services, including ambulance service, as an essential service
  • Status: House Second Readers
  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 209 aims to formally designate emergency medical services (EMS), including ambulance services, as essential services within the state of Georgia. This designation underscores the critical role that EMS plays in public health and safety, ensuring that these services are recognized as fundamental to the well-being of the community.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following significant changes to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated:

  1. Designation of Essential Services:

    • The bill adds a new section to Chapter 11 of Title 31, declaring that emergency medical services, including ambulance services, are essential services in Georgia.
    • This designation applies to services provided by public entities, private nonprofit organizations, and private for-profit companies.

  2. Clarification of Authority:

    • The bill explicitly states that this designation does not alter the existing provisions for the delivery of EMS through local coordinating entities within territorial zones and health districts.
    • It clarifies that the bill does not grant any new or additional authority, oversight, or regulatory power to state agencies or local governments.

  3. Repeal of Conflicting Laws:

    • The bill includes a provision to repeal any laws that conflict with its enactment.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • This legislation will affect all entities involved in providing emergency medical services in Georgia, including public, nonprofit, and for-profit organizations.
    • It may also impact local governments and state agencies by clarifying the existing framework for EMS delivery without expanding their regulatory powers.

  • Public Health Implications:

    • By designating EMS as essential, the bill may enhance the prioritization of funding and resources for these services, potentially improving response times and overall public health outcomes.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 30, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
  • February 3, 2025: Bill read for the first time in the House.
  • February 4, 2025: Bill read for the second time in the House.

Conclusion

House Bill 209 seeks to affirm the importance of emergency medical services in Georgia by designating them as essential services. This legislative action aims to ensure that these critical services receive the recognition and support necessary to operate effectively, while also maintaining the current regulatory framework.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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