The proposed legislation, General Assembly Substitute Bill No. 7026, seeks to amend the current nursing home bed moratorium by introducing specific exceptions for the approval of additional nursing home beds. The bill repeals and replaces subsection (a) of section 17b-354, allowing for the approval of beds designated for patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome or neurological rehabilitation, beds associated with continuing care facilities (not used in the Medicaid program), and Medicaid-certified beds that can be relocated or newly added to existing or new facilities. Notably, the bill emphasizes the preference for nontraditional, small-house-style nursing home facilities that align with the Department of Social Services' strategic plan for long-term care, addressing priority needs based on area census trends.

Additionally, the bill modifies section 17b-355 to outline the criteria the Commissioner of Social Services must consider when evaluating requests for nursing home bed relocations or additions. These criteria include financial feasibility, public need, and the impact on existing facilities. The bill also stipulates that any relocation must not increase the number of Medicaid-certified beds and must result in the closure of at least one licensed facility. Furthermore, it introduces a new focus on promoting person-centered care and community integration within nursing facilities, while also establishing a framework for assessing demonstrated bed need based on occupancy rates and strategic planning for long-term care.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
HS Joint Favorable:
File No. 151:
AGE Joint Favorable: