Bill > SB124

This bill recodifies and updates New Hampshire's existing laws governing continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), which are facilities providing long-term residential and healthcare services to senior citizens. The bill expands several key regulatory requirements, including certificate of authority procedures, annual reporting, and contract standards. Notably, the bill introduces a comprehensive bill of rights for residents, requiring providers to treat residents respectfully, allow resident associations, provide information transparently, and establish clear communication channels. The legislation also strengthens financial protections by mandating more detailed financial reporting, establishing liquid reserve requirements, and creating more robust procedures for facility transfers, closures, and potential bankruptcies. Important consumer protections include a 15-day contract rescission period, requirements for refunding entrance fees under specific circumstances, and provisions allowing residents to challenge contract cancellations. Additionally, the bill requires providers to notify residents and the state insurance department of significant changes, such as ownership transfers or facility closures, and provides the commissioner with expanded oversight powers to investigate and intervene if a provider appears to be in financial distress. The bill aims to safeguard seniors' financial investments and ensure they receive promised care and services, with an effective date of January 1, 2026.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=968&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB124