Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7840

Introduced
3/4/22  

Caption

Non-emergency Medical Transportation

Impact

The enactment of H7840 will significantly affect statutes and regulations concerning public utilities and carriers by creating new definitions and requirements for a previously under-regulated area. By mandating certifications and establishing penalties for violations, the bill aims to improve safety standards and accountability among NEMT providers. The newly established rules will apply to all operators, ensuring that public transport vehicles used for NEMT are suitably equipped and maintained, which could enhance access for individuals with disabilities and other health-related transportation needs.

Summary

House Bill H7840 introduces a regulatory framework for Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) within the state of Rhode Island. The bill outlines the definitions pertinent to NEMT services, specifying the types of vehicles and certifications needed for those who operate such services. It establishes that no person may operate a vehicle for NEMT without obtaining a certificate of operating authority, which ensures that all operators meet the necessary safety and operational standards for transporting vulnerable passengers. The bill emphasizes the importance of accessibility and the need for trained personnel to provide these critical transportation services safely and efficiently.

Contention

While the bill has many potential benefits in streamlining NEMT services and enhancing patient safety, there are concerns regarding the regulatory burden it may place on smaller transportation providers. Stakeholders have expressed worries that stringent licensing requirements and operational costs—particularly the fees associated with obtaining and renewing transport certificates—could limit the availability of NEMT services in certain regions, potentially affecting low-income or rural populations who rely on these essential services to access medical appointments.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI HB1328

Medicaid Nonemergency Medical Transportation

RI S746

To improve patient access to non-emergency medical transportation

RI H1198

To improve patient access to non-emergency medical transportation

RI H5038

To improve patient access to non-emergency medical transportation

RI 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.

RI 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.

RI A985

"Medicaid Transportation Brokerage Program Oversight and Accountability Act"; establishes vehicle, staffing, and performance standards, and review and reporting requirements for non-emergency medical transport provided under State's non-emergency medical transportation brokerage program.

RI HB1363

MEDICAID-TRANSPORTATION SRVCS

RI HB61

AN ACT relating to Medicaid-covered nonemergency medical transportation.

RI SB00429

An Act Concerning Medicaid Reimbursement For Emergency Medical Transportation.

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