This bill amends Section 39-1359 of the Idaho Code to establish clearer conditions for the conveyance of hospital district property to nonprofit corporations. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining local governance and accountability when such transfers occur, particularly to prevent the loss of community control over essential health services. The bill introduces new provisions that require public notice and a review process by the state before any control transfer can take place. Specifically, it mandates that covered hospitals provide written notice to the attorney general and conduct public hearings prior to any control transfer, ensuring transparency and community involvement.

Additionally, the bill creates a new Chapter 21 in Title 48 of the Idaho Code, which defines terms related to control transfers and outlines the necessary steps for state review. It specifies that any control transfer must be approved by the attorney general, who will assess its impact on local governance, access to services, and community benefit obligations. The bill also includes new definitions and conditions under which a hospital may be deemed to have ceased operating as a nonprofit, thereby reverting ownership back to the hospital district. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 39-1359