The proposed legislation, General Assembly Substitute Bill No. 7026, amends existing laws regarding the moratorium on nursing home beds by introducing specific exceptions. The bill repeals and replaces subsection (a) of section 17b-354, allowing for the approval of additional nursing home beds under certain conditions. These include beds designated for patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome or neurological rehabilitation, beds associated with continuing care facilities that do not participate in Medicaid, and the relocation of Medicaid-certified beds to address priority needs identified in a strategic plan. Additionally, the bill permits the establishment of nontraditional, small-house style nursing homes, provided that existing facilities reduce their total number of licensed beds.

Furthermore, 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 new facilities. Key considerations include financial feasibility, public need, and the impact on existing facilities' utilization statistics. The bill emphasizes the importance of aligning new proposals with the department's strategic state-wide long-term rebalancing plan for long-term care, which aims to enhance the quality of care and promote community integration for nursing facility residents. The legislation aims to address the evolving needs of the population while ensuring that the availability of nursing home beds is managed effectively.

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