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 amends 18 V.S.A. § 253 to require the Department of Health to analyze health equity data every three years, starting in 2028, instead of annually, and to report the findings to relevant legislative committees. The analysis will assess disparities based on various factors, including race, ethnicity, primary language, and socioeconomic status, and the data will be made publicly available in compliance with state and federal laws.

Additionally, the bill modifies the disclosure requirements for cancer and ALS registries under 18 V.S.A. §§ 155 and 174. It changes the language regarding the confidentiality agreements required before sharing data with external entities, replacing "an agreement in writing to keep" with "written assurances acceptable to the Commissioner that the identifying information shall be kept confidential and privileged as required by law." It also specifies that researchers must provide written evidence of approval from an institutional review board or privacy board, aligning with federal regulations. 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