Bill > S05229

This bill provides updates to the rate-setting methodology for residential health care facilities (nursing homes) in New York State. Specifically, the bill mandates that rate components must be updated no later than April 1, 2026, and at least every five years thereafter, using the most current cost report data. The updates will include adjustments to direct and indirect statewide price components, wage equalization factors, and other cost-related elements. To ensure these updates are comprehensive and well-informed, the bill requires the establishment of a technical assistance workgroup with external experts in nursing home rate setting. The bill also introduces provisions for adjusting rates for specialized units, such as AIDS facilities and units for traumatically brain-injured residents, with a requirement to adjust these rates for inflation starting April 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill gives the commissioner of health authority to promulgate regulations for implementing these rate updates, develop a transition period for facilities, and potentially create a nursing home quality pool to support and improve facility quality. The changes aim to create a more responsive and current rate-setting system that reflects the actual costs and conditions of residential health care facilities.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5229