CA AB2245

Redefines class "AA" violations from "direct proximate cause" to "substantial factor" in a resident's death, with clarification that a substantial factor need not be the only cause of harm.

Increases civil penalties for skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities: class "AA" violations from $25,000-$100,000 to $30,000-$120,000; class "A" violations from $2,000-$20,000 to $3,500-$25,000 (or $15,000-$60,000 if resulting in death); class "B" violations from $100-$2,000 to $150-$3,000.

Requires mandatory license suspension or revocation proceedings for skilled nursing facilities or intermediate care facilities with a second or subsequent class "AA" citation within 24 months.

Changes language throughout to reference "residents" instead of "patients" in long-term health care facilities and updates various regulatory terminology for consistency.

Adds requirement for department to provide copies of all citations to affected residents, family members, and complainants.