H.B. 940 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 940
By: Chisum
County Affairs
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

The Hemphill County Hospital District was created by the 66th legislature
in 1979.  HB 940 will amend the enabling legislation to update the
District's abilities to provide a full range of acute care hospital,
post-hospital and ancillary care services. 


RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly delegate
any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department,
agency, or institution. 

ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.

Provides for a revised process for election to the board of directors
including a process to certify the election of an unopposed candidate. 

SECTION 2.

Adds ancillary health care system to range of care services provided by
the District.  Citations to certain laws referenced are updated. Makes
conforming changes. 

SECTION 3.

Provides for an annual audit.  Requires the board to select a qualified
independent accounting firm to perform the audit. 

SECTION 4.

Provides for an emergency budget process to protect hospital district
assets and patient health and safety. 

SECTION 5.

Makes conforming changes.

SECTION 6.

Updates citations to certain laws referenced.  Makes conforming changes.

SECTION 7.

Updates citations to certain laws referenced. 

SECTION 8.

Updates citations to certain laws referenced. Makes conforming changes.
 
SECTION 9.

Allows the board to determine the type, number and location of facilities
and services that are required.  Allows the hospital system to include
equipment and services considered in addition to facilities as necessary.
Allows the board to enter into management contracts and joint ownership
arrangements with public or private entities.  Allows the board to lease
as well as sell property of any nature.  Allows the board to lease,
purchase, or lease to purchase property, facilities, supplies and
equipment. 

Updates citations to certain laws referenced.  Makes conforming changes

SECTION 10.

Provides for an alternative for the assessment and collection of all taxes
levied by the hospital district. 

SECTION 11.

Revises the procedures for the provision of indigent care.  Makes
conforming changes. 

EFFECTIVE DATE

Takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of the
members.  If the necessary vote for immediate effect is not received, the
effective date is September 1, 2003.