Bill > S01226

This bill requires public notice and engagement processes when a general hospital seeks to close entirely or close a specific unit providing maternity, mental health, or substance use care. Specifically, the bill mandates that hospitals provide written notification to the Department of Health and various stakeholders at least 210-270 days before a proposed closure, depending on whether it's a full hospital or a specific unit closure. The hospital must submit an application that includes a health equity impact assessment and proposed closure plan, and must hold a public community forum to obtain input from local residents, healthcare providers, labor unions, and other stakeholders. The forum must be announced at least 14 days in advance, be held in a location near the hospital, and be both physically and virtually accessible. The hospital must also notify local, state, and federal legislative representatives, the attorney general, and local government officials about the forum. After the forum, the hospital must submit a revised closure plan addressing community concerns, and the Public Health and Health Planning Council will review the application. The bill also requires the Department of Health to provide an annual report to the legislature detailing hospital closure notices. The goal is to ensure transparency, gather community input, and assess the potential impact of hospital closures on healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1226