CA AB653

Authorizes private, nonprofit hospitals in Santa Barbara 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 the joint powers authority is created.

Mandates the joint powers authority provide public notice at least 14 days before any hearing on proposed service reductions or changes to communities served.

Prohibits nonprofit hospitals participating in these agreements from levying taxes or assessments and restricts agreement participation to nonprofit hospital corporations and public agencies only.

Approved by Governor on September 23, 2018, and designated as Chapter 706.