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HB 1850

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICES; TO CLARIFY THE MINIMUM ALLOWABLE REIMBURSEMENT FOR GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICES; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Irvin and 2 co-sponsors

Act 867 establishes clear reimbursement rates for ground ambulance services in Arkansas, ensuring fair compensation for providers and impacting insurers and local governments.

Notification that HB1850 is now Act 867
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1850

Summary of House Bill 1850 (Act 867)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1850, now known as Act 867, aims to amend existing laws regarding ground ambulance services in Arkansas. The primary focus of the bill is to clarify the minimum allowable reimbursement rates for these services, addressing discrepancies between in-network and out-of-network providers. The bill also declares an emergency to expedite its implementation due to the urgent need for clarity in reimbursement practices.

Key Provisions

  1. Minimum Allowable Reimbursement Rates:

    • The bill amends Arkansas Code § 23-99-1802(a) to establish clear reimbursement guidelines for ground ambulance services.
    • For Participating Providers: Reimbursement rates will be based on agreements between ambulance service providers and local government entities as outlined in § 14-266-105.
    • For Non-Participating Providers: If no rates are set through agreements, the minimum allowable reimbursement will be the lesser of:
      • 325% of the Medicare Ambulance Fee Schedule for Arkansas Rural Rate, as determined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services at the time of service.
      • The provider's billed charges.

  2. Effective Date:

    • The new reimbursement rates will take effect on July 1, 2025.

  3. Emergency Clause:

    • The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor, or if not vetoed, upon the expiration of the veto period. This is intended to quickly resolve existing confusion regarding reimbursement rates.

Affected Parties

  • Ground Ambulance Service Providers: Both in-network and out-of-network providers will be impacted by the new reimbursement guidelines.
  • Healthcare Insurers: Insurance companies will need to adjust their reimbursement policies to comply with the new law.
  • Local Government Entities: Those involved in contracting with ambulance service providers will need to align their agreements with the new provisions.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 19, 2025
  • Passed by House: April 3, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 14, 2025
  • Notification of Act 867: April 17, 2025
  • Emergency Clause Adopted: April 14, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1850 (Act 867) represents a significant step towards standardizing reimbursement rates for ground ambulance services in Arkansas. By clarifying these rates and addressing existing conflicts, the legislation aims to improve the financial stability of ambulance service providers and ensure fair compensation for their services. The emergency declaration underscores the urgency of implementing these changes to protect public health and safety.

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

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