New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB405

Introduced
12/12/23  
Refer
12/12/23  

Caption

Relative to repealing certain rulemaking authority regarding long-term care.

Impact

The immediate impact of this bill can be substantial as it effectively abolishes existing regulations that the Department of Health and Human Services relies on to manage long-term care programs, including the Choices for Independence Program. Should this bill pass, it may jeopardize the approval of federal waivers necessary for funding, specifically the CFI waiver, which is essential for compliance with federal standards and for securing federal funding essential for state operations. The potential financial repercussions could lead to significant state expenditure increases as the state might need to cover the costs previously funded by federal sources.

Summary

SB405 is a legislative proposal aimed at repealing the rulemaking authority of the New Hampshire commissioner of health and human services concerning long-term care, as specified in RSA 151-E. This repeal removes the health department's ability to set administrative rules that govern long-term care services, which are critical for oversight and regulation within this sector. The bill is introduced amid concerns regarding the regulatory landscape governing long-term care facilities and services in New Hampshire.

Contention

Notable opposition to SB405 stems from concerns about the implications of stripping regulatory authority from the health department. Critics argue that this could lead to insufficient oversight in a field that is crucial for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those needing sustained care. Moreover, the loss of regulatory structure could result in the withdrawal or reduction of key federal funding that supports various long-term care services, raising alarms among healthcare advocates regarding the long-term efficacy and quality of care provided within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB36

Relative to systems of care for healthy aging.

NH HB133

Relative to repealing the communications services tax.

NH HB330

Relative to the national guard recruitment incentive program and its funding and rulemaking.

NH HB583

Relative to the termination of child support.

NH HB425

Repealing the statute relative to medical freedom in immunizations.

NH HB128

Relative to repealing state seed labeling license requirements.

NH SB131

Relative to health care provider contract standards.

NH HB414

Relative to health insurance coverage for preventative PFAS care.

NH HB373

Relative to billing for ambulance services.

NH SB235

Relative to services provided through a primary care behavioral health model.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.