The proposed bill establishes the "Rhode Island birthing center access, transparency, and financial accountability act of 2026," which aims to enhance oversight and transparency regarding the closure or significant reduction of services at birthing centers in Rhode Island. The bill prohibits the closure, relocation, or significant reduction of services at any birthing center without prior written approval from the director of the department of health.

A closure application must be submitted at least 180 days before any proposed changes, and it must include comprehensive financial disclosures, community impact assessments, and a detailed patient transition plan. The bill mandates that notice of the proposed closure or reduction be provided to various stakeholders, including local government, patients, advocacy groups, and media outlets.

The closure application must demonstrate that the birthing center cannot be sustained through restructuring or alternative staffing models, that no feasible alternatives exist to maintain safe birthing services, and that the closure will not exacerbate existing disparities in maternal and newborn health. The director of the department of health is required to hold a public hearing within 60 days of receiving notice of the proposed changes and must issue a decision on the closure application within 90 days of the public hearing.

Failure to comply with the requirements of this bill may result in civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation, with each day of noncompliance constituting a separate violation. The act is set to take effect upon passage.