Harvey Peeler

Senate Majority Leader Harvey Peeler released the following statement today after the Senate passed a bill opening up EMS records to FOIA requests. Specifically, the change allows the release of the types of EMS services and type of emergency.

“In 2004, DHEC officials contacted my office and told us that we had to make changes to EMS laws to keep patient records private in accordance with the federal HIPPA law. Unfortunately that law had unintended consequences and closed EMS records to FOIA requests. I promised to resolve this issue quickly and in recent weeks I pushed the change through subcommittee, committee, and now the State Senate. I urge the State House to pass this bill as soon as possible.”