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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2025-03-20

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill requires health insurance plans in North Carolina to cover emergency ground ambulance services without imposing higher out-of-pocket costs than they would for in-network providers, and limits cost-sharing for non-emergency ground ambulance services from out-of-network providers to no more than 110% of in-network costs. The bill also requires insurers to provide clearer information to customers about emergency service coverage and costs.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill protects patients from unexpected high medical bills when they need ambulance services during emergencies, when they have no choice in which provider they use.
• •The bill also increases transparency by requiring insurers to explain emergency coverage options and costs upfront, helping patients make informed decisions and reducing financial hardship from surprise ambulance bills.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue the bill increases costs for insurance companies, which could lead to higher premiums for all customers, and that the $1 million annual appropriation may be insufficient to cover the added expenses.
• •Some may also contend that regulating ambulance service pricing could reduce ambulance provider revenues and potentially affect service availability in rural areas where ambulance operations are already challenging.