Connecticut House Bill HB06836

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/1/23
• Report Pass: 3/27/23
• Refer: 4/6/23
• Report Pass: 4/13/23

Caption

An Act Concerning Blood Plasma Collection.

Impact

The proposed bill is intended to safeguard public health by controlling the operations of blood collection services and ensuring compliance with health regulations. With the enforcement of licensure, hospitals and private facilities will need to align their operations with state regulations, potentially leading to more consistent safety standards across the board. The legislation could significantly alter how blood plasma is collected, processed, and utilized within the state, ensuring that all operations are transparent and in the best interest of public health.

Summary

House Bill 6836, titled 'An Act Concerning Blood Plasma Collection', proposes significant changes to the regulations surrounding blood collection facilities and plasma donation centers in Connecticut. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive licensing framework that mandates all entities operating as blood collection facilities or source plasma donation centers to obtain proper licensure from the Department of Public Health. This change aims to set clearer standards for public health and safety by ensuring that entities involved in blood plasma collection adhere to prescribed operational standards and are subject to regular inspections by health authorities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 6836 appears to be predominantly supportive among public health advocates who see it as a necessary step to enhance the safety and oversight of blood plasma collection practices. However, there might be apprehensions from operators of smaller blood collection facilities regarding the financial and operational burdens associated with compliance. The debate seems to center around balancing public health needs and the operational capabilities of these businesses.

Contention

Despite the intended safety improvements, some stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the potential financial implications of compliance with the new licensure requirements. Whether the increased regulatory oversight will inadvertently lead to reduced access to plasma collection services at certain facilities is a point of contention. Additionally, the specific application process and associated fees set forth in the legislation may present challenges for smaller entities striving to meet new standards without compromising service accessibility.