H1037 Summary

• Establishes definitions for COVID-19 related terms and declares the emergency period beginning March 10, 2020, and ending when Executive Order 116 is rescinded.

• Directs creation of a Strategic State Stockpile of personal protective equipment and testing supplies by July 1, 2020, with a comprehensive plan including procurement, allocation, distribution, and inventory management recommendations.

• Authorizes dentists and pharmacists to administer COVID-19 diagnostic and antibody tests, and allows pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines through statewide standing orders with State Health Director approval.

• Grants liability immunity to health care facilities and providers for harm during COVID-19 emergency treatment, except for gross negligence, reckless misconduct, or intentional harm, with staffing shortages excluded from gross negligence.

• Expands telehealth coverage requirements for health benefit plans including virtual care reimbursement at parity with in-person services, eliminates prior authorization requirements, and allows first and second involuntary commitment examinations via telehealth.