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HB 2485

Exempt an existing hospital under certificate of need to move their facility up to 10 miles to a new location

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Burkhammer

House Bill 2485 allows West Virginia hospitals to relocate up to 10 miles without a certificate of need, enhancing access to healthcare and adapting to community needs.

To House Health and Human Resources
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Bill Summary · HB 2485

Summary of House Bill 2485

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2485
  • Title: Exempt an existing hospital under certificate of need to move their facility up to 10 miles to a new location
  • Status: To House Health and Human Resources
  • Introduced: February 03, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2485 aims to streamline the process for licensed health care facilities, specifically hospitals, to relocate their facilities. The bill proposes to exempt these hospitals from the traditional certificate of need (CON) requirements when moving their operations to a new location within a distance of up to 10 miles. This legislative change is intended to facilitate better access to health care services by allowing hospitals to adapt to changing community needs without the lengthy approval process typically associated with CON applications.

Key Provisions

  • Exemption from Certificate of Need: The bill allows existing hospitals to move their facilities up to 10 miles without needing to obtain a new certificate of need.
  • Application Process: Hospitals seeking to take advantage of this exemption must file an application detailing the justification for the move.
  • Conditions for Exemption: The bill specifies that the relocation must not result in a substantial change to the services offered or the bed capacity of the hospital.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: This bill primarily affects licensed hospitals in West Virginia, enabling them to relocate more easily. It may also impact patients and communities by potentially improving access to health care services.
  • Healthcare Flexibility: By reducing regulatory hurdles, the bill aims to provide hospitals with greater flexibility to respond to local health care demands and operational needs.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 03, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Curtis J. Tarver, II.
    • February 17, 2025: Bill introduced in the House and referred to the Health and Human Resources Committee.
    • March 04, 2025: Assigned to the Executive Committee.
    • March 21, 2025: Re-referred to the Rules Committee.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 2485, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on health care facilities and services in West Virginia.

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

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