House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes significant modifications to the licensing procedures for nursing facilities in Louisiana. The bill enacts R.S. 40:2116.3, establishing a facility need review process to assess the necessity for additional nursing facility beds based on demographic data. The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is tasked with conducting reviews every three years, starting August 1, 2026, to determine the availability of nursing facility beds in each parish. If a parish is found to need between 30 and 120 additional beds, LDH will accept applications to expand existing high-quality facilities. For parishes needing more than 120 beds, applications for new facilities will be accepted. The bill also includes provisions for public notice of new licensed bed availability and stipulates that no new facilities can participate in the Title XIX program without prior approval based on the need assessment.

Additionally, the bill repeals R.S. 40:2116.1, which previously established a moratorium on new nursing facilities and beds until July 1, 2027. It introduces a new framework for evaluating applications, prioritizing those that commit to high-quality standards, such as private accommodations and a minimum square footage per bed. The bill specifies that only entities that are both owners and operators of nursing facilities can apply for new licenses, and it requires successful applicants to secure building permits and commence construction within a year. Exceptions to the facility need review process are also outlined for the replacement of existing facilities and beds, ensuring that certain transitions can occur without the need for a new assessment.

Statutes affected:
HB654 Original: