Bill > SF3298

This bill clarifies and strengthens the requirements for hospitals planning to close, curtail, or significantly modify their services in Minnesota. The legislation amends existing statutes to specify that hospitals must provide at least 182 days' advance notice to the state health commissioner before ceasing or significantly reducing operations, including specific changes like closing inpatient or emergency department services, relocating health services, or ending critical services such as maternity, intensive care, mental health, or substance use disorder treatment. The bill mandates that a public hearing must be held within 30 days of the notice, which must be located near the hospital and include video conferencing capabilities to ensure broad public participation. During this hearing, the hospital must explain the reasons for proposed changes, describe plans to maintain community access to essential health services, and provide an opportunity for public testimony and questions. The goal is to ensure transparency, allow community input, and protect access to healthcare services when hospitals are considering major operational changes.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3298&ssn=0&y=2025