Maryland Health Care Commission – Nursing Homes – Acquisitions

This bill establishes a new process requiring anyone buying a nursing home in Maryland to notify the Maryland Health Care Commission at least 60 days before closing the deal. The law defines an acquisition as any transfer of stock or assets that changes who controls the facility, or the transfer of more than 25% of ownership. Before finalizing the purchase, buyers must submit a request for approval that includes the seller's quality ratings, evidence of past quality committees, inspection reports, and records of any lawsuits involving the facility. The Commission will review these details and provide written findings to the Office of Health Care Quality, with the option for judicial review if the Commission denies the acquisition. Additionally, the bill mandates that new owners submit regular reports to the Commission after taking over the facility.