The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the authority and operational capabilities of ambulance drivers and first responders. It allows ambulance drivers to use red lights on their personal vehicles under specific circumstances, such as responding to emergencies, and expands the exceptions for using red lights to include ambulance drivers. Additionally, the bill revises the requirements for active first responder agencies to receive exemptions from certain licensing requirements, removing previous limitations on the number of exemptions that could be granted.

Key changes include the insertion of definitions for ambulance drivers and the authorization for them to display red warning signals while responding to emergencies. The bill also revises existing restrictions on the use of warning signals and clarifies the conditions under which these signals can be used. Furthermore, it eliminates the requirement that an active first responder agency must not operate for pecuniary profit and allows for the provision of services at no cost to patients. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1487 Filed: 316.072, 316.2397, 401.25