Bill > S494

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding nursing home (specifically assisted living residence) policies for handling a resident's vacancy after their death. Currently, many such facilities require a 30-day notice and continued payment even after a resident passes away. The new law prohibits enforcing this 30-day notice policy when a resident dies and limits the facility's ability to charge rent and fees to a maximum of 10 days following the resident's death. If personal property needs to be removed that prevents the room from being reused, the 10-day period will not start until after the family, estate, or responsible party has cleared out the deceased resident's belongings. Additionally, if a new resident occupies the room before the 10-day period ends, the facility must prorate the rent and fees from the date of new occupancy and return the prorated amount to the deceased resident's family, estate, or responsible party. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, providing facilities and families time to adjust to the new policy.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S494