The bill, S.B. No. 274, proposes to rename the "Center for Elimination of Disproportionality and Disparities" to the "Office for Health Equity" and outlines the duties of this newly designated office. Key amendments include the establishment of definitions for terms such as "Office" and "Provider," and a clear mandate for the office to lead initiatives aimed at promoting health equity and reducing health disparities among various populations, including women and racial, multicultural, and disadvantaged groups. The office will also coordinate with state and federal agencies, universities, and community organizations to maximize resources and implement health initiatives, including increasing access to language services in healthcare settings.

Additionally, the bill expands the powers of the office to include monitoring health trends, investigating health access disparities, and advising on contracts with providers who focus on health equity. It allows for collaboration with other state agencies to address social determinants of health disparities and outlines funding sources for the office, including appropriations from the legislature and grants. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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