The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 144.555, to clarify the provisions regarding hospital closures and service changes. It establishes that hospitals must provide at least 182 days' notice to the commissioner of health, the public, and other stakeholders before voluntarily ceasing operations, curtailing services, relocating services, or stopping certain health services. The bill specifies that the notice requirement applies to actions such as ceasing operations, curtailing inpatient or emergency department services, relocating inpatient or emergency services, and ceasing to offer inpatient intensive care, mental health, or substance use disorder treatment services. Additionally, it allows for a shorter notice period if the controlling persons can demonstrate that meeting the advanced notice requirement is not feasible.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that within 30 days of receiving notice, the commissioner must conduct a public hearing regarding the scheduled changes. The hearing must be adequately publicized and held within ten miles of the hospital, with provisions for video conferencing to facilitate public participation. The hearing will include explanations from hospital officials about the reasons for the changes, descriptions of actions to maintain access to health services, opportunities for public testimony, and a chance for hospital representatives to respond to questions. The previous requirement for video conferencing is retained, ensuring that public engagement is prioritized during these hearings.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 144.555