Bill > SB322

This bill, known as the Health System Protection Act, establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for reviewing and approving transactions involving health care entities in Pennsylvania. The bill requires health care entities to obtain approval from the Department of Health and the Office of Attorney General before engaging in certain "covered transactions" such as sales, transfers, or changes in control of health care facilities. Prior to a transaction, the health care entity must file a detailed notification with the Attorney General, including extensive financial, organizational, and operational documents, and undergo a 90-day waiting period during which the Attorney General will assess whether the transaction is against the public interest. The Attorney General can evaluate potential negative impacts like reduced competition, decreased healthcare quality, or limited access to care, and may either block the transaction, seek court intervention, or negotiate a voluntary agreement with conditions. The bill also mandates public hearings to gather community input, requires ongoing monitoring of approved transactions for up to five years, and ensures that the costs of this review process are paid by the entities involved. Notably, the bill preserves existing regulatory authorities of various state agencies and does not prevent other regulatory bodies from reviewing or challenging such transactions. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Business and Industry

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=322