The bill amends various sections of the General Laws in Rhode Island to enhance the definitions and regulations surrounding healthcare facilities and services. It introduces new terms such as "major hospital," defined as a large, comprehensive acute care facility offering extensive specialized services, advanced technology, emergency capabilities, and significant research and teaching roles. The bill also clarifies that single-practice physician and podiatry ambulatory-surgery centers are exempt from certain requirements of chapter 15 of this title.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific licensing requirements for ambulatory-surgery centers, allowing exemptions from certain regulations if they meet defined criteria. It grants the director the authority to inspect these centers and access relevant records, including medical records.

A significant provision mandates that all major hospitals constructed or substantially renovated or expanded on or after January 1, 2028, must not install or use any heating systems that utilize fossil fuel, natural gas, or propane gas, with exceptions for emergency backup power systems. The building codes standards committee is tasked with adopting and promulgating all rules and regulations required to implement these energy requirements. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7541: 23-15-2