The bill establishes the Hennepin Healthcare Future Structure and Governance Advisory Task Force, which is tasked with developing recommendations for the future ownership, governance, and financing of the Hennepin Healthcare System, including the Hennepin County Medical Center. The advisory task force will consist of 14 members appointed by the governor, with expertise in various areas such as health care leadership, hospital operations, health care finance, public sector governance, and community representation. The task force is required to evaluate the current governance structure, explore comparable hospital systems, and engage public health stakeholders to create specific recommendations for sustainable funding and governance transitions.
Additionally, the bill appropriates $500,000 from the general fund for the task force's activities in fiscal year 2027. The advisory task force is required to submit a report by February 15, 2027, detailing their recommendations, fiscal analysis, and any necessary draft legislation. The task force will expire on June 30, 2027, or upon submission of the report, whichever comes later. The bill emphasizes the importance of Hennepin County Medical Center as a critical public health asset and aims to ensure its future viability and effectiveness in providing essential health care services.