H.B. No. 4670 aims to enhance dispute resolution and enforcement actions concerning long-term care facilities in Texas. The bill introduces a binding informal dispute resolution process, ensuring that decisions made by the adjudicating person cannot be overturned by the commission. Additionally, it defines "retaliate" in the context of adverse actions taken by the commission against nursing facilities that respond in good faith to commission decisions. The bill also clarifies that the commission cannot impose multiple penalties for the same violation and establishes that it cannot retaliate against facilities for appealing commission decisions or taking other actions to contest those decisions.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to prevent the commission from assessing administrative penalties for violations that are already subject to penalties imposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services or those under appeal. The changes will only apply to violations occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Overall, H.B. No. 4670 seeks to protect nursing facilities from retaliatory actions and streamline the enforcement process while ensuring accountability within the commission.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 242.002, Health and Safety Code 242.070 (Health and Safety Code 242)