Relating to hospice licensure; and declaring an emergency.

From the Legislature

The Act makes changes to licensing laws for hospice programs. (Flesch Readability Score: 69.7). Adds new requirements for obtaining an initial license to operate and maintain a hospice program. [Requires a hospice program to apply for a new initial license after a change in ownership.] Prohibits individuals who have been excluded from participation in Medicare or Medicaid or have been found liable for fraud or abuse from holding an ownership interest in a hospice program. Requires the Oregon Health Authority to complete rulemaking within 24 months. Subject to exceptions, prohibits the authority from issuing new hospice licenses until rulemaking is complete. Declares an emergency, effective on passage.