CA AB545

Authorizes private, nonprofit hospitals in El Dorado County to enter into joint powers agreements with public agencies, notwithstanding existing Joint Exercise of Powers Act restrictions.

Requires nonprofit hospitals and public agencies in such agreements to hold a public hearing before reducing or eliminating any emergency services after creating the joint powers authority.

Mandates the joint powers authority provide at least 14 days' advance public notice of any hearing regarding proposed emergency service reductions or changes to communities served.

Prohibits nonprofit hospitals participating in the agreement from levying taxes or assessments and limits agreement participants to nonprofit hospital corporations and public agencies only.

Approved by Governor and filed with Secretary of State on July 24, 2017.