NY S08843

Requires hospitals seeking to close entirely to provide written notice to the department and stakeholders at least 270 days before closure and submit an application with a health equity impact assessment and closure plan at least 210 days prior.

Mandates the commissioner hold a public community forum at least 150 days before a full hospital closure, with information made publicly available 30 days before the forum, and requires hospitals to submit a revised closure plan addressing community concerns within 30 days after the forum.

Applies similar notice and engagement requirements to closures or reductions of hospital units providing maternity, mental health, or substance use services, with 210 days notice required and public forums held at least 90 days before closure.

Defines "reduction" in services as more than 15% capacity reduction within 12 months, 25% or more within 24 months, or 35% or more within 36 months; exempts closures with documented good cause including temporary modernization, labor shortages, or acute financial emergencies.

Requires the Public Health and Health Planning Council to review applications and make recommendations to the commissioner, who must decide on closure approval within 30 days of the council's recommendation, and mandates annual legislative reporting on proposed hospital closures.