The bill, S.B. No. 1472, amends the Health and Safety Code to enhance the rights of residents in assisted living facilities by allowing them to designate an advocate. The executive commissioner is tasked with adopting rules to ensure the quality of care and life for residents, which now includes the designation of an advocate. The definition of "advocate" is expanded to include various individuals such as family members, guardians, and those appointed by a court. Additionally, the bill establishes that each resident has the right to designate an advocate, particularly emphasizing the importance of in-person access during the resident's final days, regardless of any public health emergencies.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that assisted living facilities develop and implement policies that facilitate this advocate designation. These policies cannot coerce residents into waiving their rights or require virtual visits with advocates. The facilities must also provide clear explanations of these policies during the admission process and before any changes are made. The executive commissioner is required to adopt necessary rules to implement these provisions, with the bill taking effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 247.0011, Health and Safety Code 247.002, Health and Safety Code 247.021, Health and Safety Code 247.064 (Health and Safety Code 247)