The bill amends Chapter 23-15 of the General Laws by introducing a new section that establishes a moratorium on the issuance of new licenses for home care providers, home nursing care providers, and hospice providers until July 1, 2031. During this moratorium, the health services council shall not review or approve any new licenses, with exceptions made for emergency circumstances, changes in ownership, or compelling situations affecting quality of life in specific geographic areas or subpopulations.

The Department of Health is tasked with conducting a statewide utilization and capacity study to assess the availability and utilization of these services, identify underserved areas, and provide recommendations for addressing gaps in care for homebound patients. The report must be produced by July 1, 2031, or the moratorium will remain in effect.

The bill sets a maximum number of licenses for each category based on the number in effect as of June 30, 2026. Any closures of providers will reduce this maximum number. Additionally, all home care providers, home nursing care providers, and hospice providers must maintain a physical non-residential office location in accordance with state requirements. If any statute or regulation conflicts with the provisions of this section, the provisions of this section shall prevail. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.