This bill amends the "Assisted Living Residence Licensing Act" and the "Rights of Nursing Home Patients" to enhance the rights of residents in assisted living facilities and nursing homes regarding vacancy policies following a resident's death. It prohibits both types of facilities from enforcing a thirty (30) day notice of vacancy policy in the event of a resident's death. Instead, they may only charge rent and fees for a maximum of seven (7) days following the death or until the deceased's personal property is removed, whichever occurs first.

If personal property impedes the reuse of the room, the seven-day period will not begin until the property is removed. Additionally, if a new resident occupies the room before the seven-day period ends, 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 deceptive trade practices under chapter 13.1 of title 6. The Department of Health is tasked with promulgating any necessary rules or regulations for the implementation of these changes. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
7929: 23-17.4-16