SB 1081 Summary

• Allows nondesignated public hospitals and affiliated entities to operate Low Income Health Programs (LIHP) if located in counties without designated public hospitals, provided the county does not intend to operate an LIHP or has formally withdrawn its application.

• Requires nondesignated public hospitals to submit LIHP applications simultaneously to both the county and state department, with counties having 30 days to indicate they are rescinding a previous application withdrawal.

• Expands LIHP eligibility to serve two populations: individuals aged 19-64 with incomes at or below 133% of federal poverty level (Medicaid Coverage Expansion), and those with incomes 133-200% of federal poverty level (Health Care Coverage Initiative).

• Mandates that nondesignated public hospitals initially establish a local stakeholder advisory committee including health plans, community health centers, consumers, and other interested parties to guide LIHP development and operation.

• Makes the bill effective immediately as an urgency statute and requires federal approval before implementation.