Panel backs measure to remove COPR requirement for certain medical equipment purchases

Representative Harris told the committee that House Bill 17 targets the state certificate of public review process to remove the requirement that providers obtain a certificate of public need before acquiring major medical equipment, such as advanced imaging machines. "By removing unnecessary regulatory steps that can delay the deployment of critical medical technology," Harris said, the bill aims to "expedite this process" and reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Harris clarified that oversight remains for acquisitions that exceed existing expenditure thresholds (testimony cited $5,800,000 as the current threshold for review) to ensure large investments are still subject to review. She also noted an amendment on members' desks clarifying an effective date of July 1, intended to allow outstanding regulatory reviews to complete and to update rules.

Symone Silver, government affairs for ChristianaCare, testified in support and told the committee that delays in acquiring or upgrading equipment can create systemwide bottlenecks that affect patient flow and outcomes. "Allowing greater flexibility in acquiring essential equipment helps providers respond more effectively to those demands," Silver said.

Representative Smith moved to release HB 17; Representative Burns seconded. A roll call was conducted and the chair announced the motion carries. The bill will proceed to the full House for further consideration.

The sponsor said the measure preserves oversight where it matters while removing duplicative steps that can delay access to diagnostic tools.