SB 2348 Summary

• Appropriates funds from the emergency medical services special fund for fiscal year 2014-2015 to establish two advanced life support ambulances in the Puna and Makalei areas on the island of Hawaii.

• Funding covers acquisition of ambulance vehicles, equipment, and personnel costs for state-certified emergency medical services personnel.

• Addresses findings that Puna and Makalei populations have grown significantly, increasing emergency medical services calls while primary care access remains distant (up to 30 miles away) for many residents.

• Aims to reduce response times, death, and disability by providing timely emergency medical response to injured or sick individuals and residents across the island.

• Effective date is July 1, 2050.