LA HB654

Repeals the current moratorium on new nursing facilities and additional nursing facility beds (set to expire July 1, 2027) and replaces it with a needs-based review process conducted every three years beginning August 1, 2026

Louisiana Department of Health must assess each parish's nursing facility bed needs by comparing the parish's ratio of beds to residents age 65+ against the national average

Parishes needing 30-120 additional beds may only expand existing high-quality facilities (those with greater than 3-star CMS ratings); parishes needing more than 120 beds may approve new 120-bed facilities

New facility applicants must be both owner and operator, with preference given to those committing to 95% private rooms/restrooms, minimum 550 square feet per bed, and maintaining 3+ star quality ratings

Licensees have one year to secure building permits and begin construction or the license reverts to the next eligible applicant