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HB 1187

Protecting patients involved in motor vehicle accidents from delayed ambulance bills.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Callan and 8 co-sponsors

HB 1187 restricts ambulance billing delays for motor vehicle accident patients, requiring faster billing to prevent surprise costs and financial hardship from emergency transport services.

Effective date 6/11/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 1187

Legislative bill overview

HB 1187 addresses billing practices for ambulance services provided to patients involved in motor vehicle accidents in Washington State. The bill aims to prevent or limit delayed billing for emergency ambulance transport in accident scenarios, though the specific mechanisms are not detailed in the available information.

Why is this important

Ambulance bills can be substantial and unexpected costs for accident victims, particularly when billed months after the incident. This creates financial hardship for individuals already dealing with accident-related medical expenses and complications, and may discourage people from calling emergency services if they fear surprise bills.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance liability determination delays: The bill may create timing pressures that complicate coordination with insurance companies determining fault and coverage responsibility in accidents
  • Ambulance provider revenue impacts: Restrictions on billing timelines or methods could affect private ambulance services' cash flow and operational sustainability
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Unclear what constitutes "delayed" billing and whether protections apply equally to all accident types (multi-vehicle, single-vehicle, hit-and-run)

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

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