Delaware Bill to Create Hospital Cost Review Board Advances

Legislation aims to resolve ongoing litigation over hospital pricing

Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:55pm

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The Delaware state legislature is fast-tracking a bill that would establish a hospital cost review board, as the state seeks to resolve longstanding litigation over hospital pricing and costs. The proposed board would have the authority to review and regulate hospital rates and spending.

Why it matters

Delaware has faced legal challenges from hospitals over efforts to control rising healthcare costs. This new legislation is an attempt to create a more structured process for overseeing hospital finances and pricing in the state.

The details

The proposed bill would create a Delaware Health Care Commission that would have the power to review and approve or deny changes to hospital rates and budgets. The commission would be made up of representatives from the state, hospitals, insurers, and consumer groups.

  • The Delaware state legislature is currently fast-tracking the hospital cost review board bill.
  • The legislation aims to resolve ongoing litigation over hospital pricing that has lasted for several years.

The players

Delaware Health Care Commission

A proposed state commission that would have the authority to review and regulate hospital rates and spending in Delaware.

Delaware Hospitals

Healthcare providers in the state of Delaware that have been involved in litigation with the state over hospital pricing and costs.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to control rising healthcare costs in Delaware while also ensuring hospitals can continue providing quality care.”

— State Representative

What’s next

The Delaware state legislature is expected to vote on the hospital cost review board bill in the coming weeks before the current legislative session ends.

The takeaway

This legislation represents Delaware's latest attempt to address the longstanding issue of rising hospital costs and pricing through a more structured regulatory framework, rather than through ongoing litigation.