Bill H.56 proposes the establishment of an emergency stockpile of essential medications specifically for reproductive and gender-affirming care in Vermont. The bill mandates the Department of Health to assess, purchase, and maintain this supply to ensure ongoing availability for individuals in the state. It includes provisions for the Department to contract with healthcare providers and facilities to manage the stockpile effectively. The bill also outlines the need for the Department to adopt rules regarding the specific medications to be included, their procurement and distribution, and protocols for inventory management to minimize waste.

Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Health to report annually to the General Assembly on the status of the emergency supply, detailing the number of doses available, utilization rates, and future supply and demand outlooks. It recognizes the potential limitations on access to these essential medications as a public health concern, allowing for the adoption of emergency rules to expedite the establishment of the stockpile. The act is set to take effect upon passage.