HB1414
To Amend The Law Concerning Claims For Fire Services; And To Update The Schedule Of Equipment Rates Used In Claims For Fire Services.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill, House Bill 1414, proposes amendments to existing Arkansas law regarding claims for fire services. Specifically, it seeks to update the schedule of equipment rates used when calculating these claims. The bill modifies two sections of the Arkansas Code: § 14-53-102(b)(1)(C)(iii) and § 20-22-901(b)(2)(C)(iii). Both sections currently reference a schedule of equipment rates to be used by boards when processing claims for fire services. The proposed changes would mandate the use of the Schedule of Equipment Rates published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of the United States Department of Homeland Security, as that schedule was in effect on January 1, 2013. This would standardize the rates used for compensation in these types of claims.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
If this bill becomes law, entities that provide fire services, particularly those that operate beyond municipal limits or are volunteer fire departments, could benefit. By standardizing the equipment rates through the adoption of a federal schedule, these service providers may experience a more predictable and potentially higher reimbursement for their services. This could lead to improved financial stability for fire departments and ensure they are adequately compensated for the resources and equipment utilized during emergency responses.
Who Might Suffer?
The groups or entities most directly and negatively impacted by this bill would likely be those responsible for paying claims for fire services, such as municipalities or insurance providers. If the mandated FEMA schedule from January 1, 2013, reflects rates higher than those previously used or currently negotiated, these paying entities could face increased financial obligations. This could potentially lead to higher costs for taxpayers or increased premiums for insurance policies that cover such services.