The bill amends the "Assisted Living Residence Licensing Act" and the "Rights of Nursing Home Patients" to establish new protections for residents in assisted living facilities and nursing homes regarding vacancy policies following a resident's death. It prohibits these facilities from enforcing a thirty (30) day notice of vacancy policy in the event of a resident's death. Instead, the facilities can only charge rent and fees for a maximum of seven (7) days from the date of death or until the deceased's personal property is removed, whichever occurs first. If the personal property is not removed within seven (7) days, the assisted living residence may arrange for its storage.

Additionally, if the room is occupied by a new resident before the expiration of the seven-day period, the rent and fees for that period will be prorated and returned to the deceased's family, estate, or responsible party. Violations of these provisions will be considered a deceptive trade practice under chapter 13.1 of title 6, allowing for potential legal recourse. The Department of Health is tasked with promulgating any necessary rules or regulations for the implementation of these changes. This act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
6393: 23-17.4-16