Governor's Bill No. 5045 seeks to reform the Certificate of Need (CON) process for health care facilities in Connecticut, aiming to enhance efficiency and clarity in the approval process. Effective October 1, 2026, the bill introduces new definitions for key terms and establishes a three-member panel within the Department of Public Health to make final decisions on CON applications starting January 1, 2027. The bill also creates a Certificate of Need Unit to oversee the application process, prepare analyses for public hearings, and ensure compliance with new regulations. Notably, it specifies that certain actions, such as the establishment of new health care facilities and changes in ownership, will require a CON, while other actions, including the replacement of imaging equipment and the establishment of harm reduction centers, will be exempt from this requirement.

The legislation also outlines new criteria for evaluating CON applications, emphasizing public interest, quality of care, and financial stability. It mandates that applicants uncertain about the need for a CON can request a determination from the Certificate of Need Unit, which must respond within thirty days. Additionally, the bill introduces an expedited review pathway for certain applications and establishes a framework for compliance enforcement, including civil penalties for violations. The bill aims to ensure that health care proposals align with public needs while maintaining high standards of care and accountability in the healthcare market.

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