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 facilitate the administration of the stockpile. Additionally, the Department is required to adopt rules regarding the specific medications to be included, their procurement and distribution, and protocols for inventory management.

The bill also includes a reporting requirement, stipulating that the Department of Health must report annually to the General Assembly on the status of the medication stockpile, including details on inventory levels and utilization. Furthermore, it allows for the adoption of emergency rules to address potential limitations on access to these essential medications, which are considered a public health concern. The act is set to take effect upon passage.