MA S492

Requires the Department of Public Health to promulgate regulations promoting dignity for nursing home residents equivalent to protections for residents of mental health and developmental disabilities facilities, effective by July 1, 2027

Mandates every nursing home establish a Human Rights Committee with authority to receive, investigate, and initiate investigations into complaints affecting resident rights

Requires the Commissioner to designate at least two Human Rights Officers per region trained in enforcement and resolution of human rights violations for nursing home residents and staff

Extends federal nursing home resident rights from the Omnibus Budget Reform Act of 1987 to all residents regardless of whether they receive Medicare or MassHealth benefits

Requires annual training for Human Rights Committee members across six regions