Substitute House Bill No. 6987 seeks to improve the processes for closing and evacuating residential care homes and nursing homes. The bill introduces new requirements for these facilities to assist residents in finding suitable placements, taking into account their proximity to family and support networks, as specified in the new insertions in sections 1 and 2. Additionally, it establishes a working group led by the Commissioner of Social Services, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Public Health and the State Ombudsman, to assess evacuation procedures and explore the creation of a mutual aid digital platform for healthcare organizations. This group is expected to report its findings by January 1, 2026.

Moreover, the bill imposes new insurance obligations on nursing homes and residential care homes to cover personal property loss or damage resulting from closures or evacuations, effective October 1, 2025. It also revises admission policies, allowing expedited transfers from facilities that are closing or have filed for a certificate of need, under certain conditions outlined in section 6. The bill aims to enhance the safety and well-being of residents during transitions and emergencies while ensuring that facilities are adequately prepared and insured. The changes do not impose a fiscal impact on the state, aside from costs related to developing a bed availability database and hiring part-time staff for its maintenance.