This bill amends existing law to allow the commissioner of health and human services to increase the bed capacity of pediatric intermediate care facilities under specific conditions. It introduces new provisions that enable the commissioner to assess the capacity of these facilities and report any identified need for additional beds to the relevant legislative committees. If deemed necessary, the commissioner can authorize an increase in the number of licensed beds, contingent upon the approval of the joint fiscal committee of the general court.

Additionally, the bill permits pediatric intermediate care facilities established before the effective date of this legislation to temporarily house two additional pediatric residents beyond their licensed capacity, with this authorization set to expire on June 30, 2026. The bill modifies the existing moratorium on increasing licensed capacities for various health facilities, specifically allowing for these exceptions in pediatric care. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with an approval date of June 17, 2025, and an effective date of August 16, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 151:2
As Amended by the House: 151:2
Version adopted by both bodies: 151:2
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 151:2