Bill > LD35

This bill addresses the financial challenges facing emergency medical services (EMS) in Maine by temporarily increasing MaineCare (Maine's Medicaid program) reimbursement rates for ambulance services. Specifically, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, the Department of Health and Human Services will reimburse ambulance services at 140% of the average Medicare reimbursement rate. The bill includes a $15 million transfer from the Department of Public Safety's Emergency Medical Services Stabilization and Sustainability Program to support this initiative. The funding will come from two sources: $7.3 million in federal expenditure funds and $5 million in other special revenue funds for each of the two fiscal years covered. The bill's preamble highlights that recent blue ribbon commissions have identified inadequate funding as a critical issue for EMS providers, and without increased financial support, some areas of the state risk losing access to life-saving emergency services. The emergency clause means the legislation will take effect immediately upon approval, reflecting the urgent need to support and stabilize local ambulance services.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=35&snum=132