The bill S. 144 aims to amend Section 44-61-100 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to expand the exemptions for emergency medical services. Specifically, it allows firefighters to transport patients in vehicles other than ambulances when they arrive at the scene before emergency medical service providers and encounter a patient in need of urgent care. This provision is intended to enhance the response capabilities of firefighters in emergency situations where licensed ambulances are insufficient or unavailable.

The new legal language inserted into the bill clarifies that firefighters, regardless of their licensing status as emergency medical service providers, are permitted to transport patients suffering from conditions requiring emergency responses, provided that the appropriate emergency medical service provider is notified and local licensed ambulances are not available. This change aims to improve patient outcomes by enabling quicker transport to healthcare facilities during critical situations. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 44-61-100
Latest Version: 44-61-100