Bill Summary: HB 05316

• Expands the definition of "large group practice" from 30+ physicians to 8+ physicians, broadening the scope of practices subject to certificate of need requirements for ownership transfers.

• Lowers the threshold for "group practice" reporting requirements from 30 to 8 physicians, effective October 1, 2024, requiring annual reports to the Attorney General and Office of Health Strategy.

• Establishes automatic certificate of need approval for transfers of large group practices to independent physicians or physician-owned partnerships by December 31, 2025, streamlining the approval process.

• Requires the Office of Health Strategy to report by January 1, 2025 on recommendations for establishing an expedited certificate of need process for mental health facilities.

• Exempts certain healthcare entities from certificate of need requirements, including mental health facilities expanding bed capacity until June 30, 2026 and birth centers enrolled in Medicaid until June 30, 2028, provided they meet specified conditions.