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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 20, 2019 10:34 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Kyle J. Mullins |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Protecting Nursing Home Residents |
| When a loved one requires care that can no longer be provided at home, we often have to make the difficult choice to place a cherished family member in a nursing home. The nursing home we ultimately chose is often dictated by many factors: location, ratings, word-of-mouth, price, or whether the family member has friends or family who are already residents. It is never a decision that is taken lightly. Unfortunately, even after finding what seems to be the perfect nursing home, violations can happen. They can range from violations that are small, and are of no risk to residents, staff or visitors, to violations with serious consequences. Right now, the state is capped at fining these facilities a maximum of $500 per violation, which is on the low end when compared to most surrounding states. Accordingly, I am introducing legislation that will set up a tiered system of fines that will give the Department of Health more flexibility when assessing fines, with the highest fines reserved for violations resulting in actual harm or a serious and immediate threat of harm. This measure would bring our fine structure more in line with neighboring states. We are entrusting our nursing home facilities with the care of our loved ones – those who raised us, cared for us and shared their wisdom with us – at their most vulnerable stage in life. We owe them the very best care when they can no longer provide it themselves and this is one way we can help ensure that they get it. I ask you to join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. If you have any questions, please contact Jessica in my Harrisburg office at jluce@pahouse.net or 717-783-5043. |
Introduced as HB1613