WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SD 1043

An Act authorizing the University of Massachusetts Building Authority to purchase and construct a hospital in the town of Norwood to be operated by UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Rush

Summary of SD 1043: UMass Hospital in Norwood Act OverviewThis proposed bill would authorize the University of Massachusetts Building Authority to purchase land and construct a new

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1043

Summary of SD 1043: UMass Hospital in Norwood Act

Overview

This proposed bill would authorize the University of Massachusetts Building Authority to purchase land and construct a new hospital in the town of Norwood, Massachusetts. The hospital would be operated by UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc., a non-profit healthcare system affiliated with the University of Massachusetts.

Key Provisions

  • Grants the UMass Building Authority the power to acquire land, design, construct, and equip a new hospital facility in Norwood
  • Allows the Authority to issue up to $350 million in bonds to finance the hospital project
  • Requires the hospital to be operated by UMass Memorial Health Care, Inc. as part of its integrated healthcare network
  • Mandates that the hospital provide a certain level of charity care and community benefits as determined by the state's Health Policy Commission
  • Directs UMass Memorial to collaborate with local public health departments and community organizations to address regional healthcare needs and disparities

Intended Impacts

  • Expand access to academic-affiliated, high-quality healthcare services for residents of Norwood and the surrounding region
  • Strengthen UMass Memorial's presence and ability to coordinate care across its network
  • Support economic development and job creation in Norwood through the hospital's construction and ongoing operations
  • Improve population health outcomes and reduce healthcare disparities in the local community

Timeline and Next Steps

If passed, the bill would take effect immediately upon the Governor's signature. The UMass Building Authority would then have 18 months to complete the purchase of land and begin construction of the new hospital facility. The target opening date for the hospital is projected to be within 5 years of the bill's enactment.

The bill has been referred to the Legislature's Joint Committee on Higher Education, who will hold public hearings and make recommendations before sending it to the full House and Senate for consideration.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.