CT SB00288

Expands exceptions to Connecticut's nursing home bed moratorium to allow new beds at existing or new facilities that address priority needs reflected by area census trends, with preference given to nontraditional, small-house style nursing homes that promote person-centered care

Requires demonstrated bed need for new nursing home beds to be based on occupancy above 96% for a minimum of two consecutive quarters in the geographic area, using the Department of Social Services' strategic long-term rebalancing plan

Mandates the Commissioner of Social Services conduct audits of minimum data set (MDS) information used to calculate Medicaid acuity-based per diem rates, with nursing homes required to provide requested documentation within 10 days

Excludes related party employees (those connected through family, common ownership, or business association) from the definition of "employees" when calculating reasonable costs for nursing home Medicaid reimbursement rates

Adds consideration of a nursing home's CMS five-star quality rating as a factor when the Commissioner evaluates requests for additional beds or facility changes