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Supporters say LB1069 will help rural EMS sustainability; DHHS asks for carve-outs for federal funds
Summary
LB1069 would require EMS providers seeking state grants to certify they pursue third-party reimbursement; proponents said billing is widely available and can fund operations while DHHS requested amendments to avoid unintended impacts on Rural Health Transformation Program grants.
Senator Robert Dover told the committee LB1069 is designed to ensure limited state EMS grant dollars supplement, not substitute for, other available reimbursements. The bill would require EMS providers seeking state-funded grants to confirm they implement billing practices to pursue third-party payers where appropriate.
Proponents highlighted examples in which ambulance services that began billing realized new revenues that covered equipment purchases and sustained services. Michael Dwyer, a veteran EMT, said modern billing services can be largely automated and that the bill targets a relatively small share (estimated 15'25%) of EMS agencies that currently do not bill. Gene Bradley, a former EMS chief, said billing is the "lifeblood" of ambulance services and that pursuing reimbursements supports sustainability, particularly in rural Nebraska.
DHHS frontline officials testified in a neutral capacity and asked for clarifications to avoid conflicts with federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) grant rules. The sponsor accepted an amendment to carve RHTP funds out of the billing-certification requirement so federal grant activities would not be impeded.
The committee received neutral and supportive testimony and closed the hearing; proponents urged advancement as a narrow measure to improve EMS financial sustainability in rural communities.
