(a)
In order to effectively implement this chapter, the Legislature finds that it is indispensable that providers of health care be free to engage in voluntary, cooperative efforts with consumers, government, or other providers of health care to fulfill the purposes of the health planning laws.
(b)
Approved plans and projects undertaken in compliance with those plans, as provided in Sections 437.20, 437.21, 437.22, and 437.23 are exempt from Chapter 1 (commencing with Section
16600), Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 16700), Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 16900), and Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 17000) of Part 2 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code.
(c)
In the case of a project that, on or before January 1, 1987, is included in the Tulare County countywide long-range capital investment plan, that is contained in the “April 1983 Multi-Hospital Capital Investment and Master Plan,” as amended by the April 1986 update, the exemptions set forth in subdivision (b) shall apply even though the project is not undertaken until after January 1, 1987.