SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Every Illinois municipality and fire protection district will soon have the ability to charge fees for lift assist services to help deter non-emergency lift assist calls and recover associated costs.
Many home rule governments already charge people fees when first responders are called to help lift someone, but other communities have struggled with the cost.
The Illinois Municipal League said the rising number of calls for lift assist at congregate care facilities has become a growing concern.
"Lift assist services present risk of potential injury to municipal EMS and fire personnel, creating significant long-term financial and operational challenges for local governments," said IML President and Champaign Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen.
On average, lift assist worker compensation claims are twice as costly as any other municipal claims. This legislation states that municipalities and fire districts can charge reasonable fees to assisted living and nursing home facilities for lift assist services exceeding six occurrences per year.
The fees must not exceed the actual personnel and equipment costs incurred in providing service.
Springfield implemented a new lift assist fee for assisted living facilities, independent living facilities, and nursing homes last month. The Springfield fee does not apply to people residing in their homes or to medical emergencies.
The new law will take effect on January 1.Â
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