This bill amends the County Option Hospital Fee Program Act to clarify the regulations surrounding the fees imposed on hospitals by participating counties. It removes the previous requirement that these fees be subject to a cap determined by the Commissioner of Human Services, replacing it with a stipulation that the fees must undergo review and approval by the commissioner. Additionally, the bill establishes that the fees cannot exceed the aggregate amount specified in federal regulations (42 C.F.R. s.433.68(f)(3)) minus one percent of total net patient revenues.

The bill maintains the commissioner’s authority to review and approve county option programs annually, ensuring that the fee structure aligns with federal guidelines while providing counties with the flexibility to generate necessary revenue for local hospitals. The changes aim to enhance financial resources for hospitals serving low-income citizens without compromising compliance with federal regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-7