|
Consumer Voice Opposes H.J. Res. 139 – A Resolution to Block Staffing Standards in Nursing Homes
On May 10, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule implementing a minimum staffing standard in nursing homes. The rule will require that nursing homes have a registered nurse on-site 24 hours per day, seven days per week, meet modest minimum staffing requirements, use evidence-based, data-driven methods when determining the needs of residents in their homes, and implement much-needed transparency in Medicaid spending. This rule was the culmination of decades of advocacy by nursing home residents, their families, and their advocates. It is arguably the most significant increase in protections for nursing home residents in nearly forty years.
Despite this historic announcement, some in Congress are seeking to stop the implementation of the final rule. Recently, H.J. Res. 139 was introduced that would not only block this rule but would prevent CMS from ever issuing a rule requiring safe staffing standards in nursing homes. It would perpetuate the poor care and working conditions that exist in far too many nursing homes and put current and future residents and staff at risk of harm.
Consumer Voice strongly opposes H.J Res. 139 and any other effort to prevent implementation of safe staffing requirements in nursing homes. We urge Congress to stand with nursing home residents, their families, and nursing home workers and reject these efforts.
Read our full statement regarding H.J. Res. 139.
|
|
Lawsuit Filed Against Maryland Department of Health Alleging Nursing Home Neglect
Justice in Aging, with Public Justice Center and Arnold & Porter, have filed a class action lawsuit against the Maryland Department of Health for failing to inspect nursing facilities, provide oversight, and investigate complaints, leading to serious violations of residents’ rights. The lawsuit, which alleges violations to the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, was filed on behalf of nursing facility residents with disabilities who need assistance getting out of bed or leaving their rooms but were often left unattended for hours in soiled linens and clothing.
Read more about the lawsuit on Justice in Aging's website.
|
