Bill > H0214

This bill establishes the Safe Harbor Award Program to provide financial assistance to Vermont residents and out-of-state residents receiving reproductive or gender-affirming health care services in Vermont. The program will create a special fund administered by a five-member board chaired by the State Treasurer, which can receive public and private funding to provide monetary awards that cover "collateral costs" such as travel, lodging, and meals associated with obtaining these health care services. The program prioritizes assistance for patients with the greatest financial need and those from areas with limited healthcare access. Importantly, the bill mandates that the award process will not collect or retain any patient-identifying information, protecting patient privacy. The fund can collaborate with other governmental entities and states to support these efforts, and the Treasurer will provide an annual financial report that does not reveal specific details about healthcare providers or organizations receiving awards. The program aims to reduce financial barriers to accessing reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare services by providing direct financial support to healthcare providers and nonprofit organizations serving patients. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.214