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LD 378

An Act To Strengthen The Health Care System In Maine

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donna Bailey

LD 378 - An Act To Strengthen The Health Care System In Maine OverviewBill Number: LD 378 Title: An Act To Strengthen The Health Care System In MaineStatus: CARRIED OVER, in the s

Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · LD 378

LD 378 - An Act To Strengthen The Health Care System In Maine

Overview

Bill Number: LD 378
Title: An Act To Strengthen The Health Care System In Maine
Status: CARRIED OVER, in the same posture, to any special or regular session of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order SP 800.
Introduced: February 04, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of LD 378 is to address longstanding challenges in Maine's health care system and improve access to affordable, high-quality care for all residents. The bill aims to expand insurance coverage, increase provider capacity, and promote innovative delivery models to better meet the state's evolving health care needs.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a state-based health insurance exchange to facilitate enrollment in private and public coverage options
  • Expands Medicaid eligibility to cover all adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level
  • Provides financial incentives and loan forgiveness programs to attract and retain health care workers in underserved areas
  • Authorizes the creation of accountable care organizations (ACOs) to coordinate patient care and share financial risk
  • Requires hospitals and insurers to increase transparency around pricing and quality metrics
  • Invests in telehealth infrastructure and services to improve access in rural and remote communities

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Uninsured and underinsured Maine residents would gain access to more affordable health coverage options
  • Health care providers, especially in rural areas, would benefit from workforce development initiatives and new care coordination models
  • Hospitals and insurers would be required to enhance price and quality transparency, impacting their operations
  • The state government would oversee the new insurance exchange and Medicaid expansion, as well as regulate the formation of ACOs

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

LD 378 was introduced in the 131st Maine Legislature and carried over to the 132nd session, indicating ongoing legislative consideration. The bill must still undergo committee review, floor votes, and potential amendments before reaching the governor's desk. If enacted, many of the provisions would require additional rulemaking and implementation planning by state agencies.

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

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