The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 144.555, to clarify the provisions regarding hospital closures and the necessary notifications. It establishes that hospitals must notify the commissioner of health, the public, and other relevant parties at least 182 days prior to voluntarily ceasing operations, curtailing services, relocating services, or stopping certain services. The bill specifies that if a hospital cannot meet this notice requirement, they must demonstrate the infeasibility to the commissioner, who may approve a shorter notice period. The actions requiring advanced notice include ceasing operations, curtailing inpatient or emergency department services, relocating inpatient or emergency department services, and ceasing to offer specific inpatient services such as intensive care, mental health, or substance use disorder treatment.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for public hearings following the notice of closure or service changes. The commissioner is required to conduct a public hearing within 30 days of receiving notice, ensuring adequate public notice and the use of video conferencing technology for public participation. The hearing must be held within ten miles of the hospital or campus, and it will include explanations from hospital controlling persons regarding the reasons for the changes, descriptions of actions to maintain access to health services, opportunities for public testimony, and responses to questions from the public. The bill removes previous language regarding the requirement for video conferencing technology, while reinforcing its necessity in the new provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 144.555