Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Feb. 16 signed House Bill (HB) 5523, a $1.2 billion supplemental funding bill that focuses on keeping kids learning in-person and bolstering the state’s healthcare workforce. This legislation directs $300 million to healthcare providers for recruitment, retention and training purposes, $225 million of which will be specifically for acute-care and behavioral health hospitals.
The MHA will act as fiduciary for the hospital funds and is working with the state to obtain the $225 million for distribution as soon as possible. The MHA will update hospitals in the coming weeks on specific allocations and distribution. Critical access hospitals and small and rural facilities will receive a portion of the funds, and a minimum amount has been set that all hospitals will receive.
The Senate passed HB 4348, which would regulate and establish licensure for Pharmacy Benefit Managers in Michigan. HB 4348 was introduced by Rep. Julie Calley (R-Portland) and is supported by the MHA to help slow the rising cost of prescription medications. Passed in the Senate Feb. 15, the House concurred with the Senate version Feb. 16, and the bill will now go to the governor to sign into law.
Any questions on state legislation related to healthcare may be directed to Adam Carlson at the MHA.