Bill H.245 seeks to expand the authority of the Green Mountain Care Board by enabling it to review and approve budgets for both hospitals and health networks, rather than just hospitals. The bill emphasizes the need for the Board to investigate monopolistic practices in the healthcare sector and take necessary actions to safeguard public welfare. Key amendments include replacing the term "hospital" with "hospitals and health networks" throughout the legislation, thereby broadening the Board's oversight capabilities. The bill also introduces provisions for assessing the impact of monopolies, allows the Board to contract external entities for investigations, and establishes a framework for budget reviews that incorporates cost containment, public input, and adherence to the Health Resource Allocation Plan.

Additionally, the bill grants the Board the authority to issue orders without prior notice in cases of financial emergencies affecting hospitals or health networks, ensuring that public safety and financial stability are prioritized. It outlines the process for hearings and appeals to the Superior Court for affected entities. The legislation also includes mechanisms for reducing expenditures for non-compliant hospitals or health networks, mandates that officers and directors file information under oath, and imposes penalties for false reporting. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, with specific amendments regarding budget reviews beginning in the fiscal year 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-9375, 18-9376, 18-221