(3) Annual assessments of not less than $100 assessed by the organization against providers. The assessments are to be determined on an annual basis by the board. The total dollar amount of assessments under this subparagraph must equal the assessments under subparagraph (2).

The aggregate level of annual assessments under subparagraphs (2) and (3) must be an amount sufficient to meet the organization's expenditures authorized in the state budget established under Title 5, chapter 149. The annual assessment may not exceed $1,346,904 in fiscal year 2002-03. In subsequent fiscal years, the annual assessment may increase above $1,346,904 by an amount not to exceed 5% per fiscal year. The board may waive assessments otherwise due under subparagraphs (2) and (3) when a waiver is determined to be in the interests of the organization and the parties to be assessed.

Sec. 3. 22 MRSA §8706, sub-§3, as enacted by PL 1995, c. 653, Pt. A, §2 and affected by §7, is amended to read:

3. Use of funds. The organization shall use the revenues from fees, assessments and user fees to defray the costs incurred by the board pursuant to this chapter, including staff salaries, administrative expenses, data system expenses, consulting fees and any other reasonable costs incurred to administer this chapter.

SUMMARY

This bill repeals the provisions of law concerning assessments to support the Maine Health Data Organization, leaving the organization supported by reasonable costs and user fees.