HB 4317 Summary

• Creates a nursing home advisory commission within the Department of Health and Human Services, to be appointed by the governor.

• Commission membership includes the DHHS director (or designee), at least 3 area agency on aging representatives, 5 licensed nursing home administrators, the chief medical executive, an independent epidemiologist, the state long-term care ombudsman, and 4 legislators (2 from House, 2 from Senate representing both parties).

• First meeting must occur by June 1, 2021; commission must meet at least 4 times annually and comply with open meetings and freedom of information requirements.

• By September 1, 2021, the commission shall submit a report with recommendations on nursing home visitation policies, resident access to mental and physical health services, and technological support for resident-family communication.

• Commission is abolished after submitting the required report; members serve without compensation but may receive reimbursement for expenses.