The proposed legislation, General Assembly Substitute Bill No. 7026, amends existing laws regarding the moratorium on nursing home beds in Connecticut. It repeals and replaces subsection (a) of section 17b-354, allowing for exceptions to the moratorium under specific conditions. These exceptions include the addition of beds for patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome or neurological rehabilitation, beds associated with continuing care facilities (not used in the Medicaid program), and the relocation of Medicaid-certified beds to address priority needs identified in a strategic plan. The bill also introduces provisions for new beds in existing or new nontraditional, small-house-style nursing home facilities, provided that the total number of licensed beds is reduced by a percentage determined by the Commissioner of Social Services.

Additionally, the bill modifies section 17b-355, outlining the criteria the Commissioner must consider when evaluating requests for nursing home bed changes. These criteria include financial feasibility, public need, and the impact on existing facilities. The legislation emphasizes the importance of not increasing the total number of Medicaid-certified beds and encourages the development of facilities that promote person-centered care and community integration. The bill also establishes a new standard for demonstrating bed need based on occupancy rates and strategic planning for long-term care, ensuring that the availability of beds aligns with community needs and trends.

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