The proposed legislation seeks to regulate public communications regarding contract terminations between health carriers, facilities, and providers. It prohibits health care providers and carriers from making public statements about contract expirations or terminations until 45 days before the termination date, with exceptions for disclosures required by law. The bill clarifies that communications with state officials are not considered public statements and that there is no obligation for carriers or providers to notify enrollees of potential terminations unless legally mandated. Additionally, it requires the creation of standard template language for notices to enrollees, detailing affected facilities and continuity of care rights, and establishes enforcement mechanisms, including civil penalties for violations.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing regulations concerning oversight and enforcement actions against birthing centers and private establishments that fail to meet health and safety standards. It introduces a "limited stop service" or "stop placement" for facilities identified as posing immediate jeopardy, preventing them from admitting new patients or providing certain services until compliance is achieved. The Department is mandated to conduct follow-up inspections within five business days to verify corrections and outlines the process for adjudicative proceedings related to enforcement actions, including the rights of licensees to contest adverse actions. The bill emphasizes timely notification and corrective action by facilities to ensure patient safety remains a priority.

Statutes affected:
Bill as Passed Legislature: 18.130.180, 70.41.510, 70.42.162, 70.230.210, 18.46.050, 70.127.170, 71.24.910, 71.12.710
Session Law: 18.130.180, 70.41.510, 70.42.162, 70.230.210, 18.46.050, 70.127.170, 71.24.910, 71.12.710