Bill > LD1972

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for reviewing and overseeing significant health care transactions in the state of Maine. The legislation requires health care entities (including providers, facilities, and organizations) to provide advance notice and seek approval for material change transactions valued at $10 million or more. The Department of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Office of Affordable Health Care, will conduct a preliminary review within 60 days and may require a more extensive comprehensive review for transactions that could impact health care costs, competition, quality, or access. The review process includes public hearings, examination of various factors like market impact, patient access, and workforce effects, and allows the department to approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove transactions. Health care entities must also submit detailed reports about their ownership and control, which will be made publicly available to improve transparency. The bill includes provisions for post-transaction oversight, allowing the Attorney General and the department to enforce compliance, conduct audits, and impose penalties for violations. Importantly, the law is designed to protect patients by ensuring that health care transactions do not negatively impact the accessibility, affordability, or quality of health care services. The legislation will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving health care entities time to prepare for the new reporting and review requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1972&snum=132