Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB124

Introduced
1/30/23  

Caption

Health; first responders of municipal fire departments may engage in emergency medical transportation of patients; provide

Impact

The introduction of HB 124 brings about significant adjustments in state law, especially regarding the licensing and operational guidelines for emergency medical services. By allowing fire department personnel to transport patients in life-threatening situations, the bill aims to streamline emergency responses and alleviate the burden on traditional ambulance services. This shift could improve response times to critical medical emergencies, potentially saving lives and ensuring better health outcomes within communities.

Summary

House Bill 124 amends Chapter 11 of Title 31 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically addressing the role of first responders in emergency medical situations. The bill enables first responders from municipal fire departments to engage in emergency medical transportation of patients under specific conditions. This legislative initiative is aimed at enhancing the capacity of local fire departments to manage medical emergencies effectively, ensuring timely assistance when licensed ambulance services are unavailable.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, HB 124 has faced discussions around the adequacy of training and resources provided to fire department personnel for emergency medical transportation. Some stakeholders express concerns about the implications for public safety if first responders are not sufficiently trained to handle medical emergencies. Furthermore, there is a debate over the financial aspects of such a service, including possible impacts on local budgets and the necessity of licensing costs, which may affect smaller municipal fire departments.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA S3007

Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.

GA A4601

Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.

GA S09974

Establishes the crime of interference with emergency first responders; creates a fifteen foot buffer zone around emergency first responders engaged in the performance of their official duties.

GA A10621

Establishes the crime of interference with emergency first responders; creates a fifteen foot buffer zone around emergency first responders engaged in the performance of their official duties.

GA HB1446

Health; transfer responsibility for oversight of emergency medical services from Department of Public Health to Georgia Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Council

GA SB24

Provides for the certification and regulation of emergency medical responders. (BDR 40-292)

GA H1591

First Responders

GA HB1591

First Responders:

GA SB1138

Relating to first responder policies for emergencies occurring at a group home in certain municipalities and counties.

GA SB1292

Modifies provisions relating to emergency transportation of patients to abortion facilities

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