This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to emergency services. Notably, it removes the previous limitation on the number of red or red and white warning signals that certain vehicles, such as those belonging to volunteer firefighters and medical staff, may display. Additionally, it revises the criteria for applicants seeking exemptions from obtaining certificates of public convenience and necessity, increasing the required years of service from 10 to 15 and the number of unpaid volunteers from 50 to 150. It also mandates that applicants submit a sworn affidavit to the department attesting to their eligibility for the exemption, with penalties for fraudulent submissions. Furthermore, the bill limits the number of counties that can be granted this exemption from four to 15 and prohibits licensed volunteer ambulance services from participating in grant programs designed for publicly operated emergency services.

The bill also includes a provision that requires volunteer ambulance services to provide a management plan as part of their application for licensure and to include disclaimers in their materials indicating they are not associated with the state's 911 system. Additionally, it amends a cross-reference in the trauma services system plans to ensure consistency with the new regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1644 Filed: 316.072, 316.2397, 401.25
S 1644 c1: 316.2398, 395.401