Delnicki Supports Legislation to Protect Community Hospitals

HARTFORD – State Representative Tom Delnicki (R-14) supported final passage of legislation aimed at strengthening oversight of hospital ownership and protecting patient care across Connecticut.

The legislation, Senate Bill 196 establishes new safeguards to ensure that healthcare decisions are driven by patient needs—not outside financial interests—while increasing transparency and accountability for hospital systems operating in the state.

Rep. Delnicki said the legislation is especially important for South Windsor, many of whom rely on Manchester Memorial Hospital and Rockville General Hospital for care.

“Families need dependable local hospitals,” said Delnicki. “After the uncertainty surrounding Manchester Memorial and Rockville General, it became clear that we need stronger oversight and commonsense protections to ensure patient care always comes first. We cannot permit another Prospect Medical situation."

Senate Bill 196 places guardrails on certain financial practices—such as sale-leaseback arrangements—and increases state review of hospital transactions, particularly those involving private equity firms. The goal is to prevent financial instability that could jeopardize services, staffing, or long-term access to care.

Delnicki emphasized that protecting community hospitals is about more than infrastructure—it’s about safeguarding access to emergency services, supporting healthcare workers, and maintaining trust within the community.

“This legislation helps ensure that our hospitals remain focused on serving patients, supporting frontline healthcare workers, and being there when families need them most,” Delnicki added.

The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for signature.