CO SB121

Creates a separate health facility license category for critical access hospitals as defined under federal regulations (42 CFR 485, Subpart F), allowing them to operate without holding a general hospital license.

Requires critical access hospitals to submit annual applications for licensure beginning January 1, 2026, with mandatory compliance by July 1, 2026.

Authorizes the State Board of Health to adopt rules establishing licensure requirements, safety and care standards, waivers, and fees for critical access hospitals consistent with section 25-3-105.

Updates multiple Colorado statutes to reference critical access hospitals in definitions of health facilities, emergency medical services facilities, and healthcare facilities subject to transparency reporting and healthcare affordability fees.

Appropriates $45,722 for fiscal year 2024-25 to the Department of Public Health and Environment for administration and operations, including 0.4 FTE, with most provisions effective July 1, 2026.