SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6880
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of March 2, 2010
Title: An act relating to emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
Brief Description: Concerning professional fees for certain emergency medical service occupations.
Sponsors: Senator Keiser.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Ways & Means: 3/02/10.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS |
Staff: Jenny Greenlee (786-7711)
Background: Currently, physician-trained emergency medical service intermediate life support technicians and paramedics, more commonly referred to as Emergency Medical System (EMS) technicians, are required to be certified by the Department of Health. The department is able to set parameters for practice, training standards, and procedures for certification and recertification. These technicians are exempt from paying a fee for their certification.
Summary of Bill: Emergency medical personnel certified through the Department of Health must pay a fee for certification and license renewal if they receive compensation. Compensation is defined as regular payment for providing emergency medical care but does not include nominal payments or reimbursements for expenses.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on March 1, 2010.
[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2010.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: CON: This bill does remove volunteers from having to pay the fee but the ambulance association is already hurting. The companies are not reimbursed fully under Medicare rates. Most other professions that pay fees, the professional pays the fee. Due to collective bargaining, the employer is going to have to pay the fee and that will hurt businesses.
Persons Testifying: CON: Susie Tracy, Washington Ambulance Association.