Substitute House Bill No. 5514, also known as Public Act No. 26-13, introduces comprehensive revisions to public health statutes in Connecticut, significantly broadening the definition of "institution" to encompass various healthcare facilities and services, including provisions for dependent family members of educational institution employees enrolled in health plans. The bill establishes a working group under the Commissioner of Public Health to evaluate managed residential communities and their licensure, aiming to enhance health and safety for residents receiving assisted living services. It also mandates healthcare providers to inform patients about medical record retention and includes provisions for the Long-Term Care Advisory Council to represent a wider range of health organizations, including those for individuals with disabilities.

Additionally, the bill addresses several key areas, including the licensure of veterinarians from other states, the management of opioid use disorder, and the establishment of a council for chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. It introduces new requirements for health assessments in public schools, mandates the reporting of asthma diagnoses, and enhances the confidentiality and safety of minor patients in educational settings. The legislation also streamlines the licensure process for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel across member states through a compact, ensuring regulatory oversight and public safety. Overall, the act aims to improve public health services, enhance patient care, and ensure comprehensive health evaluations and follow-up care in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 20-90
PH Joint Favorable Substitute: 20-90
File No. 540: 20-90
APP Joint Favorable: 20-90
File No. 742: 20-200, 10-206a, 20-102aa, 20-112a
Public Act No. 26-13: 20-200, 10-206a, 20-102aa, 20-112a