Bill > S479

This bill aims to improve living conditions and privacy for residents in long-term care facilities by mandating single-occupancy rooms. Specifically, the legislation requires that residents be the sole occupant of their assigned room, with exceptions only if the resident, their guardian, or health care proxy voluntarily agrees to share the room with a spouse or one other resident. The bill also stipulates that in cases of single-room occupancy, the bathroom should not be shared with any other person. To implement this requirement, the executive office of health and human services is directed to seek federal approval for potential rate increases for single-occupancy rooms, and the department of public health must develop regulations to promote single rooms and bathrooms in all licensed facilities. The bill applies to new facilities and substantial renovations, giving existing licensed facilities up to three years to comply. Additionally, the legislation prioritizes projects that reconfigure facilities to provide single-occupancy rooms when allocating resources or grants. This bill represents a significant effort to enhance the dignity, privacy, and comfort of long-term care residents.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S479