The bill amends Section 23-17.5-21 of the General Laws concerning the rights of nursing home patients, introducing new penalties for violations. It establishes that any nursing home that refuses or neglects to post required provisions or otherwise violates the chapter will be subject to civil penalties. Additionally, the bill creates a specific cause of action for any person, including estates, against nursing homes that violate these rights, allowing for the recovery of actual and punitive damages, as well as reasonable attorneys' fees and costs for prevailing plaintiffs.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the Department of Health to maintain an action in the name of the state to enforce the provisions of this chapter and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7759: 23-17.5-21