NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee House of Representatives passed legislation to strengthen consumer protections for emergency medical services and prevent patients from unexpected ambulance bills.
House Bill 1061, sponsored by State Rep. Greg Vital, R-Harrison, protects patients from “surprise billing” by prohibiting out-of-network ambulance providers from charging patients the remaining balance for emergency transport services covered by their health insurance plan.
“When you call 911, your focus should be on getting the critical help you need, not worrying about whether the ambulance is in-network,” said Vital. “This bill eliminates surprise billing for emergency ambulance services and provides greater financial protection for patients during moments of crisis, ensuring patients are protected when they need it most.”
Emergency ambulance services are required by law to respond to 911 calls regardless of a patient’s insurance coverage or inability to pay. Because patients cannot choose their ambulance provider during an emergency and providers cannot select which insurance network to join for emergency calls, patients must pay the significant difference between the total charge and the amount covered by their insurance plan.
House Bill 1061 is still advancing in the Senate. If enacted, it would take effect July 1, 2026.
Rep. Greg Vital represents District 29, which includes parts of Hamilton County. Rep. Vital serves on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and the Commerce and Transportation Committee, as well as the Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee.
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