S.B. No. 481 mandates that nursing facilities and assisted living facilities in Texas develop and implement comprehensive emergency preparedness and response plans to ensure the safety and continued care of residents during emergencies. The bill introduces new requirements for these facilities, including the installation and maintenance of emergency generators or alternate power sources, a sufficient fuel supply for at least 96 hours, and carbon monoxide alarms. Additionally, the plans must include strategies to manage resident safety during power outages, such as maintaining a safe temperature range and facilitating the safe transport of residents when necessary.
The bill also stipulates that each facility must provide personnel with training on the emergency plans and outlines the responsibilities of the Health and Human Services Commission in reviewing and approving these plans. Facilities that fail to comply with the new regulations may face license revocation. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025, and facilities are required to adopt the new plans as soon as practicable thereafter.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()