HB 274 Summary

• Increases various fees charged by the Department of Health and Social Services for licensing, registration, permits, and inspections across multiple industries including restaurants, water suppliers, laboratories, cosmetology shops, and vital statistics.

• Establishes new licensure and regulatory frameworks for Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities, End Stage Renal Disease Facilities, Free Standing Outpatient Healthcare Facilities, Outpatient Physical Therapy/Speech Therapy Facilities, and Portable X-ray Suppliers, including application fees, annual renewal fees, and construction plan review fees.

• Creates regulatory standards and permitting requirements for tattoo parlors, body piercing establishments, milk processors, public swimming pools, and tourist/trailer camps, with associated permit and plan review fees.

• Requires criminal background checks and mandatory drug testing for employees at newly regulated healthcare facilities to protect patient safety.

• Increases civil penalties for violations including Clean Indoor Air Act violations (from $100/$250 to $200/$500) and establishes various inspection and investigation fees for complaints related to unsanitary or unsafe practices.