Should The Dept. Of Health And Human Services Transfer Property To A Tribal Hospital Organization? (S. 230)

What is S. 230?

(Updated March 15, 2018)

This bill was enacted on September 30, 2015

This bill would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to transfer roughly 23 acres of land to the Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) in Bethel, Alaska — where the corporation's hospital is located. The transfer would take place as early as possible within 180 days after this legislation’s enactment.

The YKHC is a tribal organization that serves 58 communities — all federally recognized Tribes. They offer a network of community and subregional clinics, a hospital, dental services, mental health services, substance abuse counseling and treatment, health promotion and disease prevention programs. In 2014, the YKHC and the Indian Health Service (IHS) proposed a renovation and addition at the YKHC hospital in Bethel, which could move forward more quickly if HHS transferred its ownership interest in the land to YKHC.

Argument in favor

There doesn’t seem to be much reason for HHS to retain ownership of the property - especially if it delays improvements at the YKHC hospital.

Argument opposed

HHS should have to fulfill any environmental obligations that it may retain in a way that doesn’t interfere with planned construction projects at the YKHC hospital.

Impact

The Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation, the people it serves, the HHS, and the HHS Secretary.

Cost of S. 230

A CBO cost estimate found that implementing this bill would have no effect on the federal budget.

Additional Info

In-Depth:

The YKHC would not be liable for any environmental contamination on the property as defined by federal or state law. HHS would also be directed to comply with the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) in its transfer of the property. HHS will be allowed whatever easement on the property it needs to fulfill ongoing obligations after the property’s transfer.

Media:

Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing featuring sponsoring Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)

CBO Cost Estimate

KYUK

KYUK (Context)

KTVA Alaska (Context)