Representative Alan Williams' legislation To Extend Access to Health Care In Rural Communities Signed Into Law

From the House Dems:

State Representative Alan Williams (D-Tallahassee) today applauded Governor Charlie Crist for signing into law House Bill 873 to enhance access to health care in rural communities.

The legislation, sponsored by Representative Williams, extends the deadline for proposed hospitals to complete preparations for an active hospital license from 18 months to three years. The bill also enables rural hospitals, including Gadsden County Hospital, with an inactive license for at least 20 months to receive an additional year to meet licensing requirements.

Representative Williams said that, without an extension, Gadsden County Hospital would have lost its license to operate on June 30.

“Gadsden County needs its hospital and the county and community have worked diligently to reopen it, including approving a half-cent sales tax last fall for the purpose of funding the hospital,” said Representative Williams, who made reopening the hospital a priority of his election campaign for the House of Representatives.

“This is a great day for Gadsden County and the many citizens that receive healthcare services from the county,” said Representative Williams. “I am confident that the extension of the inactive license for Gadsden County Hospital ensures the community the hospital will reopen.”