HB16-1097 Summary

• Establishes regulatory framework for Medicaid nonemergency transportation providers, requiring them to obtain permits from the Colorado Public Utilities Commission similar to other charter bus operators.

• Requires Medicaid client transport drivers to submit fingerprints for state and national criminal history record checks through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, with costs paid by the individual driver.

• Defines "Medicaid client transport" as vehicles transporting Medicaid recipients under nonemergent medical transportation contracts or nonmedical transportation contracts with the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing.

• Permits valid for one year from issuance date, with applicants required to provide proof of a Medicaid transportation agreement with the state health department or its approved agent.

• Appropriates $164,672 for 2016-17 state fiscal year to implement regulation, including funds for the health department, regulatory agencies, Colorado Bureau of Investigation, department of law, and information technology services.