Bill > A02442

This bill amends the social services law to allow reimbursement of transportation costs for emergency medical services without requiring prior authorization. Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement for social services officials to pre-approve emergency transportation, including ambulance services certified under article 30 of the public health law. It authorizes the commissioner of health to establish a reimbursement methodology that ensures providers are paid at the higher of either the existing medical assistance rate or the Medicare allowable charge for such transportation. The reimbursement increase will be phased in over three years: 33% in the first year, 66% in the second year, and 100% in the third year and subsequent years. Additionally, the bill mandates that 100% of the amount expended for medical assistance transportation will be covered, after deducting any federal funds received, starting April 1, 2025. The purpose of this legislation is to ensure that emergency medical transportation providers are adequately compensated and that patients can receive critical emergency care without bureaucratic delays.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2442