The bill H.293 focuses on enhancing health equity data reporting and updating cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) registry disclosure requirements in Vermont. It mandates the Department of Health to analyze health equity data to identify disparities based on various factors, including race, language, and socioeconomic status, and to report these findings every three years starting in 2028, instead of annually. The bill also emphasizes that the data used for analysis must be publicly available in compliance with state and federal laws.

Additionally, the bill modifies the conditions under which confidential information can be shared with cancer registries and researchers. It replaces the requirement for a written agreement to keep information confidential with a need for "written assurances" that comply with legal confidentiality standards. For researchers, the bill specifies that they must provide evidence of approval from an institutional review board or privacy board, rather than an academic committee, ensuring that data sharing aligns with established privacy protections. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-253, 18-155, 18-174
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-253, 18-155, 18-174
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 18-253, 18-155, 18-174