This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 144.551, subdivision 1, to provide exceptions to the current moratorium on hospital construction and modification. The existing law restricts various types of construction or modifications that would increase hospital bed capacity or establish new hospitals. However, the bill introduces several specific exceptions, including the addition of new beds in existing hospitals, the construction of new hospitals under certain conditions, and the relocation of beds within hospital systems, provided these actions do not result in an overall increase in bed capacity.

Notably, the bill includes new provisions that allow for the addition of 85 licensed beds in an existing safety net, level I trauma center hospital in Ramsey County, and the relocation of long-term acute care hospital beds under specific conditions. Additionally, it modifies existing language by changing the term "designated" to "regulated" in relation to certain hospital projects. These changes aim to address the growing healthcare needs in Minnesota while maintaining oversight and ensuring that expansions do not compromise existing healthcare services.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 144.551
1st Engrossment: 144.551