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H 1373

An Act relative to establishing a health safety net task force

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steven Howitt

Summary of H 1373 - An Act relative to establishing a health safety net task force Main Purpose and IntentThe primary goal of H 1373 is to establish a health safety net task force

Reporting date extended to Friday, July 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 1373

Summary of H 1373 - An Act relative to establishing a health safety net task force

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of H 1373 is to establish a health safety net task force to examine and make recommendations for improving access to affordable health care and social services for underserved and vulnerable populations in the state.

Key Provisions

  • Creates a 15-member task force comprised of state agency representatives, healthcare providers, and community advocates
  • Requires the task force to:
    • Conduct a comprehensive assessment of existing health and social services safety net programs
    • Identify gaps, barriers, and unmet needs in accessing these services
    • Develop strategies and policy recommendations to strengthen the safety net and improve health equity
  • Mandates the task force to submit an initial report of findings and recommendations to the legislature by March 18, 2026
  • Provides the task force with the authority to request data and information from state agencies to support its work
  • Appropriates $500,000 in funding to support the task force's operations and analysis

Affected Stakeholders

  • Underserved and vulnerable populations, including low-income individuals, racial/ethnic minorities, the elderly, those with disabilities, and the uninsured/underinsured
  • State health and human services agencies
  • Healthcare providers, clinics, and community-based organizations serving disadvantaged communities
  • Policymakers and legislators responsible for addressing health equity and access issues

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • The bill was introduced in the state legislature on February 27, 2025
  • It replaces a previously proposed bill (HD 1199) with a similar intent
  • The task force is required to submit its initial report of findings and recommendations by March 18, 2026
  • The bill provides for the task force to continue its work beyond the initial reporting deadline if necessary

Overall, H 1373 aims to take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identifying and addressing gaps in the state's health and social services safety net in order to improve access and health equity for vulnerable populations.

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

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