SB 2262

Abstract

Amends the Nursing Home Care Act. Requires the Department of Human Services to establish a New Directions for Nursing Home Resident Care Task Force to develop a 5-year plan to deinstitutionalize individuals who require long-term care consistent with the federal requirements of community integration. Provides that the Department shall provide administrative support to the Task Force. Provides that the Department shall, within 6 months after the amendatory Act's effective date, create the Facility Transition Housing Program to provide housing assistance payments to individuals who receive benefits under the federal Social Security Act, face placement in a facility, or leave a facility. Requires the Program to provide housing assistance payments sufficient to allow eligible individuals to live in the local community. Provides that, subject to appropriation, the Department shall establish the Facility Transition Housing Program Task Force to assist in the design of the Program. Requires the Department to create a program to provide nursing services and assistance with activities for daily living sufficient to allow individuals who otherwise qualify for placement in a facility to receive short-term services in their local communities. Provides that persons who receive specified federal benefits shall receive a personal needs allowance of $90 per month, with the Department providing $60 per month in addition to the amount provided under federal law. Contains provisions concerning retaliation against residents and employees for complaints against a facility. Contains other provisions.