Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF3700

Introduced
2/13/24  

Caption

Notice and public hearings for hospital closures, curtailment of operations, relocation of services, and cessation in offering services governing requirements modified; penalties provided; and right of first refusal before the sale of hospital or hospital campus established.

Impact

HF3700 impacts existing state laws by tightening the requirements hospitals must follow when they plan to cease operations, curtail services, or relocate offerings, thereby strengthening community involvement in hospital operational decisions. Additionally, it establishes consequences for non-compliance, including hefty fines for hospitals that do not adhere to notification protocols. This element adds a layer of accountability that was previously underregulated, aiming to prevent abrupt service interruptions that could endanger patient health and safety.

Summary

House File 3700 introduces amendments to the regulations governing hospital closures and service relocations in Minnesota, aiming to enhance transparency and patient protection. The bill mandates that hospitals must provide a longer notice period of 300 days before shutting down or relocating services. Public hearings will be required within 30 days of receiving notice, giving stakeholders a formal platform to voice concerns and discuss the implications of these changes. Also, the bill outlines the content and methods for providing necessary notifications, ensuring that all relevant parties are informed adequately.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HF3700 revolve around the balance between regulatory oversight and operational flexibility for hospitals. Proponents argue that the stringent notice and hearing requirements are necessary to promote community input and safeguard patient access to healthcare services. Conversely, some stakeholders express concerns that the extended notice periods could hinder hospitals' ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, such as financial difficulties or changes in patient demographics. This tension between regulation and operational agility represents a significant debate in the discussions around the bill.

Companion Bills

MN SF4382

Similar To Notice and public hearings for hospital closures, curtailment of operations, relocation of services, and cessation in offering certain services requirement modifications, penalties provisions, right of first refusal before the sale of a hospital or hospital campus

Previously Filed As

MN SF4382

Notice and public hearings for hospital closures, curtailment of operations, relocation of services, and cessation in offering certain services requirement modifications, penalties provisions, right of first refusal before the sale of a hospital or hospital campus

MN HF5359

Moratorium on hospital and hospital campus cessations in operations, curtailments of operations, relocations of health services, and cessations in offering health services established.

MN HF3090

Hospital closure provisions clarified.

MN SF3298

Hospital closure provisions clarification

MN HB271

Establishing the Distressed Hospital Grant Program to award grants to distressed hospitals to prevent the reduction of services or cessation of operations; and making an appropriation.

MN HB101

Establishing the Distressed Hospital Grant Program to award grants to distressed hospitals to prevent the reduction of services or cessation of operations; and making an appropriation.

MN S873

Relative to hospital closures and health planning

MN SF1081

Gross revenues tax repeal on hospitals and health care providers

MN SF1480

Gross revenues tax on hospitals and health care providers repeal

MN SF3269

Gross revenues tax on hospitals and health care providers repeal

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