Relating to nonmedical pregnancy resource centers, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions

This bill relates to nonmedical pregnancy resource centers (resource centers). The bill defines “nonmedical pregnancy resource center” as an entity that is not licensed in this state to provide medical services; provides individuals with counseling services related to pregnancy and childbirth, including but not limited to referrals to nonmedical services, child-rearing resources, and adoption services; and does not provide referrals for abortions. The bill requires each resource center to disclose information regarding the hospital or clinic closest to the location of the resource center that provides pregnancy delivery services. The bill details requirements for availability of the disclosure. The bill requires each resource center to ensure that each ultrasound performed at the resource center is performed by a health care provider licensed in this state and qualified to interpret ultrasound results. The bill requires each resource center to maintain confidentiality, in compliance with state and federal laws, of all data, files, and records related to the services provided to individuals. A resource center shall comply with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regardless of whether the resource center is a covered entity under HIPAA or is otherwise subject to HIPAA. The bill requires the department of health and human services (HHS) to establish a complaint process for the submission of reports of alleged violations of the bill.41C and directing HHS to terminate the MOMS program on or before August 31,2026. All funds appropriated to HHS for the MOMS program that remain unobligated and unencumbered on the date the MOMS program terminates shall be transferred to HHS to increase reimbursement rates for labor and delivery services provided under the medical assistance program. The bill appropriates $1 million from the general fund of the state to HHS for FY 2026-2027 to be used to increase the reimbursement rates for labor and delivery services provided under the medical assistance program. The bill takes effect upon enactment.