AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY-- DETERMINATION OF NEED FOR NEW HEALTHCARE EQUIPMENT AND NEW INSTITUTIONAL HEALTH SERVICES

SB 2388 freezes the issuance of new home care, home nursing, and hospice provider licenses until July 1, 2031, with limited exceptions for emergencies, pending applications, ownership changes, or geographic service gaps. During the moratorium, the Department of Health must conduct a statewide study to assess current service availability, underserved areas, and future needs. The maximum number of licenses for each category is capped at the 2026 count, decreasing annually if providers close. If the health department fails to complete the study by 2031, the license freeze remains in effect.