TITLE: Relating to reciprocity agreements between certain air ambulance companies operating a subscription program.

SUMMARY: Relating to reciprocity agreements between certain air ambulance companies operating a subscription program.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to reciprocity agreements between certain air ambulance companies operating a subscription program. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Section 773.011, Health and Safety Code, is amended by amending Subsections (b) and (e) and adding Subsection (d-1) to read as follows: (b) The executive commissioner shall adopt rules establishing minimum standards for the creation and operation of a subscription program. The rules must: (1) ensure the protection of public health and safety; (2) ensure compliance with federal laws and rules related to air ambulance subscription program services; and (3) establish minimum standards and objectives for the delivery of air ambulance emergency medical services provided in accordance with a reciprocity agreement entered into under Subsection (d-1). (d-1) To ensure maximum geographic coverage for patients covered under a subscription program, an air ambulance company that operates a subscription program shall, in accordance with executive commissioner rules, enter into a reciprocity agreement with each other air ambulance company that operates a subscription program in the same service delivery area. (e) The Insurance Code does not apply to a subscription program established or a reciprocity agreement entered into under this section. SECTION 2. As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Act, the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission shall adopt rules necessary to implement Section 773.011, Health and Safety Code, as amended by this Act. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect January 1, 2020.