House approves law requiring equal reimbursement for anesthetic services after heated floor debate

Lawmakers debated Senate Bill 13-72 at length before passing it on third reading; the measure requires equal reimbursement for the same anesthesia services provided by anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).

Opponents warned the bill effectively imposes a statutory rate adjustment and could push up healthcare costs. One lawmaker said mandating equal pay for different provider types risks creating a price floor and interferes with the private market: "This is an indirect minimum wage for people who make $300,000 a year," the lawmaker argued, and voted no.

Supporters disputed that characterization and said the bill preserves access to care in rural and underserved communities where CRNAs are often the primary anesthesia providers. Multiple members representing rural districts emphasized that ensuring equal reimbursement helps sustain providers who serve remote hospitals and tribal communities. "CRNAs are the primary providers of anesthesia care in rural and unsupervised communities," a supporter said before voting aye.

On the roll call the clerk recorded 33 ayes, 20 nays and 7 not voting; the House passed SB 13-72 and instructed the clerk to convey the action to the Senate.

Why it matters: Supporters say equal reimbursement protects care access in rural Arizona; opponents say the legislature should not set reimbursement levels and that differences in training and oversight justify differential pay.

What happens next: The clerks were directed to record the House action and convey SB 13-72 to the Senate.