The bill H.553, introduced by Representative Yacovone, mandates that hospitals conduct public hearings on their proposed budgets at least 30 days before submission to the Green Mountain Care Board. These hearings are intended to explain the budget and any changes in services, while also providing the public with opportunities to offer input. Additionally, hospitals are required to submit a summary of the public comments received during these hearings, along with any written feedback, to the Green Mountain Care Board as part of their budget review process.

Furthermore, the bill allows the Green Mountain Care Board to require hospitals to align or coordinate their administrative functions with other hospitals to enhance efficiencies and reduce administrative costs. The bill amends existing law to include these provisions, ensuring that public input is considered in budget development and that hospitals work collaboratively to optimize their operations. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-9454, 18-9456