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HB 961

Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act; insurance coverage for certain out-of-network ambulance transportation service; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Au and 6 co-sponsors

Georgia bill mandates insurance coverage of out-of-network ambulance services to eliminate surprise billing for emergency medical transportation.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · HB 961

Legislative bill overview

HB 961 requires insurance plans to cover out-of-network ambulance transportation services, protecting consumers from surprise billing when emergency medical transport is needed. The bill addresses gaps in coverage that currently allow insurers to charge patients substantial out-of-pocket costs for ambulance services rendered by providers outside their network.

Why is this important

Ambulance services are often emergency situations where patients have no ability to choose an in-network provider, yet surprise bills can reach thousands of dollars. This protection aligns ambulance coverage with broader surprise billing protections and reduces financial hardship for patients facing medical emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost implications: Requiring coverage of all out-of-network ambulance services may increase premiums if insurers pass costs to policyholders
  • Network adequacy standards: The bill doesn't specify whether insurers must develop adequate in-network ambulance networks, potentially shifting burden entirely to coverage mandates
  • Rural provider challenges: Smaller ambulance services in rural areas may face coverage disputes or reimbursement rate disagreements with insurers
  • Definition scope: Unclear whether bill covers all medical transportation or only emergency ambulance services, and how it handles air ambulances or specialized transport

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

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