VT H0080

Establishes the Office of the Health Care Advocate as an independent voice for Vermonters dedicated to promoting access to high-quality, affordable health care, expanding its scope beyond just health insurance consumers to all Vermonters

Enhances the Office's authority in insurance rate review proceedings by allowing submission of questions with "substantial relationship" to rate filings and written comments that the Green Mountain Care Board must post publicly and consider before decisions

Grants expanded participation rights in certificate of need proceedings, including access to all application materials, ability to submit written questions for applicants, provide testimony, and ask questions at hearings

Requires State agencies to facilitate the Office's meaningful participation in health care policymaking, including providing access to confidential information when appropriate and seeking the Office's input on significant policy matters affecting health care access and affordability

Changes the annual reporting deadline from January 1 to January 15 and takes effect July 1, 2025