Health department would oversee ambulance certification and service rates

The Department of Health would take over ambulance standards from the Department of Transportation. The transfer covers ambulance standards, related staff, money, records, property, and contracts. The transfer would begin January 1, 2027. Existing rules, decisions, certifications, tariffs, and approvals would stay in effect until changed, suspended, revoked, or otherwise agreed upon.

The Department of Health would review applications and oversee certificates for ground ambulance services. These provisions cover in-state transport of sick or injured people by ground ambulance; air ambulances are excluded from the act's definition of ambulance. A service would need a department certificate or temporary authority, an approved tariff, and proof of financial responsibility to operate. The department could not approve an application if existing service is reasonably continuous and adequate, or if an existing service is willing and able to provide adequate service and does so as ordered. A territorial approval would generally require service to begin within 30 days after a certificate is issued, unless the department sets another date.

The department would set and oversee ambulance rates and service terms. These tariff rules apply to certified ambulance services and cover their rates, charges, service terms, and authorized territories. Services could not charge rates or provide service on terms that differ from their approved tariffs, except as allowed for government programs or operations. The department could investigate written complaints and suspend a rate or service term for up to 60 days; it would set a rate or term if it found a violation. A rate increase above the previously approved rate would not take effect until the department approves it.