The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved legislation reducing government overreach into healthcare markets by repealing the Psychiatric and Chemical Dependency Facility Certificate of Need Act. 

The author of House Bill 2330, Rep. Jeff Boatman, R-Tulsa, said the measure aims to eliminate unnecessary government interference in the healthcare sector, specifically in the establishment of psychiatric and chemical dependency facilities.

"House Bill 2330 promotes competition, lowers barriers to entry for providers, and ultimately enhances access to quality mental health and addiction treatment services for our communities," Boatman said. 

Boatman said the certificate of need process, which mandates governmental approval for the establishment or expansion of healthcare facilities, has long been criticized for impeding competition, limiting consumer choice, and stifling innovation in the healthcare industry. HB2330 seeks to address these concerns by removing bureaucratic barriers and fostering a more competitive and responsive healthcare market.

HB2330 will now proceed to the Senate for consideration, where it is authored by Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville.