Bill > SB2196

This bill, known as the "No Patient Left Alone Act," mandates that healthcare providers must allow clients to receive visitors during their stay or residency, following rules set by the Department of Health. Even if a facility needs to restrict general public access due to health or safety concerns, it must create alternative visitation plans that permit visits as much as possible while still protecting client well-being. The bill specifically requires in-person visits in situations like end-of-life care, when a client is struggling with a recent move and needs family support, is grieving, experiencing weight loss or dehydration due to lack of family cueing for eating/drinking, or showing signs of emotional distress. While providers can implement infection control measures for visitors, such as health screenings and personal protective equipment, they cannot outright deny visits unless a visitor fails these protocols. Providers must submit their visitation policies annually for approval and correct any deficiencies within 30 days of notice. They are also required to inform clients and their families about these visitation rights and how to report violations. The Department of Health will maintain a webpage detailing these rights and will investigate reported violations within 30 days. Failure to correct a violation or repeated violations can result in administrative fines of at least $500 per violation, with each day of a continuing violation counting as a separate offense.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/SB/SB2196.xml