The governor signed legislation from Rep. David Stuebe on Wednesday that will reinforce Medicaid support for emergency ambulance providers and protect access to lifesaving services across Washington.
House Bill 2531 updates Washington’s ambulance quality assurance fee program to promote long-term financial stability for emergency medical providers while maintaining compliance with federal Medicaid requirements. The bill will modernize the way Medicaid reimbursement rates are calculated and adjusted for emergency ambulance transports.
“Ambulance teams are often the first point of contact during a medical emergency, particularly in rural communities where health care access is limited,” said Rep. Stuebe, R-Washougal. “This legislation strengthens the financial foundation these providers depend on and ensures our state maximizes federal Medicaid support for critical emergency services.”
Under the new law, Washington will continue assessing quality assurance fees on private, non-governmental ambulance providers. Those dollars will be deposited into a dedicated account and used to secure federal Medicaid matching funds. Together, the state and federal funds will boost reimbursement rates for emergency ambulance transports.
HB 2531 directs the Washington State Health Care Authority to recalculate the Medicaid add-on payment for emergency transports each year. Under current law, those rates can remain unchanged for several years, even as call volumes, staffing needs, and operational expenses shift. Annual updates will ensure reimbursement more accurately reflects current costs and the level of federal support available.
“Reliable and current funding allows ambulance providers to upgrade lifesaving equipment, retain skilled paramedics, and stay prepared to respond at any hour,” Stuebe said. “This approach supports first responders while maintaining responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”
The legislation will also refine program definitions to improve clarity, maintain compliance with federal requirements, and ensure payment calculations remain accurate. The program will continue to operate without drawing from the state’s general fund and is structured to remain revenue-neutral for Washington.
The bill takes effect 90 days after the 2026 session adjourns on March 12.
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Washington State House Republicans