Bill > H795

This bill aims to improve privacy and infection prevention in nursing homes by requiring single-occupancy rooms and bathrooms. Specifically, the bill amends existing law to mandate that nursing home residents have their own room unless they or their guardian voluntarily agree to share with a spouse or one other resident. The executive office of health and human services is authorized to seek federal approval for potential rate increases to support single-occupancy rooms. The department of public health must create regulations to promote single rooms and bathrooms in licensed facilities. The requirements will apply to new facilities and substantial renovations, with existing facilities given up to three years to comply. Additionally, the bill indicates that when allocating funds for facility improvements, priority should be given to projects that reconfigure spaces to create single-occupancy rooms. This legislation addresses concerns about resident privacy, personal space, and potential infection transmission in shared living environments, particularly in the context of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic about the importance of reducing disease spread in congregate care settings.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H795