North Dakota Senate Bill SB2332

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Report DNP: 2/2/23

Caption

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for providing primary, palliative, and hospice home-based services.

Impact

This bill, if passed, will establish a framework for enhancing health service delivery in the state by enabling the development of regional offices to implement these care services effectively. It will also support the construction and operation of two new 12-bed inpatient units, thus increasing the capacity for providing in-home support for patients in need of hospice and palliative care. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the quality of life for many individuals needing in-home healthcare services throughout North Dakota.

Summary

Senate Bill 2332 aims to provide significant funding to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services for the allocation of primary, palliative, and hospice home-based services. The bill appropriates $82 million from the state treasury to support grants intended to enhance these services, especially in underserved areas. The funds are designed to help independent nonprofit community-based hospice programs that meet certification and licensing requirements set forth by relevant health authorities.

Contention

Although the bill received a majority of negative votes during its second reading in the Senate, with 39 nays compared to just 5 yeas, it indicates potential opposition or concerns regarding the funding priorities or the implementation strategies proposed. Arguments against the bill likely center around budget allocations and whether the resources are sufficient or appropriately targeted towards areas of greatest need. Discourse surrounding the bill may highlight anxieties over the effectiveness of such funding and how accountability will be maintained for the distribution of these grants.