Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

Delaware Senate Bill SB151

Introduced
5/17/24  
Engrossed
5/22/24  
Introduced
5/17/24  
Refer
5/23/24  
Engrossed
5/22/24  
Enrolled
6/13/24  
Refer
5/23/24  
Passed
8/1/24  
Enrolled
6/13/24  

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 6 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Mandatory Disclosure Of Information In Long-term Care Facilities Offering Dementia Care Services.

Impact

The implementation of SB151 has significant implications for state laws governing long-term care facilities. By formalizing the requirement for informed consent through mandatory disclosures, this bill seeks to ensure that potential residents and their families are aware of the nature of the care provided, the qualifications of the staff, and the policies affecting residents with dementia. This law not only enhances accountability for care facilities but also empowers consumers in making informed choices about long-term care options.

Summary

SB151 aims to amend Title 6 of the Delaware Code by establishing mandatory disclosure requirements for assisted living facilities that provide dementia care services. The bill mandates that these facilities must disclose essential information regarding their policies, care philosophies, staffing, and resident services in a clear and easily understandable format. A key aspect of this legislation is to enhance transparency, allowing individuals and families making decisions about dementia care to have access to critical information about services offered.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SB151 have generally been supportive among advocates for elderly care and dementia services, as they view this bill as a necessary step towards improving the quality of care and protecting the rights of residents. However, there are concerns among some facility operators regarding the burden of compliance with such comprehensive disclosure requirements. Overall, there appears to be a recognition of the need for transparency, balanced against practical concerns of facility management.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential administrative burden placed on assisted living facilities with respect to maintaining accurate and up-to-date disclosures, as well as fears that stringent regulations might inadvertently restrict the availability of services. Debates have focused on balancing the need for consumer protection through transparency with the operational realities of care facilities. The overall challenge lies in ensuring that the law enhances care quality while not discouraging the provision of critical services for individuals with dementia.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

DE SB150

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Dementia Care Services In Long-term Care Facilities.

DE SB152

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Rights Of Long-term Care Facility Residents.

DE SB215

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To State Inspections Of Long-term Care Facilities.

DE HB300

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Long-term Care Facilities.

DE HB204

An Act To Amend Titles 16 And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Temporary Staffing Agencies Serving Long-term Care Facilities.

DE HB199

An Act To Amend Titles 16 And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Temporary Nurse Staffing Agencies Serving Long-term Care Facilities.

DE SB165

An Act To Amend Title 24 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Pharmacy.

DE SB216

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Long Term Care Facilities And Services And Civil Penalties.

DE SB272

An Act To Amend Titles 18 And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Health Insurance, And Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Pharmacist Care.

DE SB86

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Delaware Volunteer Fire Service Revolving Loan Fund.

Similar Bills

OK HB2262

Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; imposing certain duties; broadening applicability of certain penalties; effective date.

OK HB2830

Health; Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; adding type of care; penalties; misdemeanor; effective date.

OK SB1010

Health; Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; adding type of care; providing that certain individuals may be held liable for penalties and charged with a financial fine. Effective date.

OK HB2830

Health; Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; adding type of care; penalties; misdemeanor; effective date.

OK SB1010

Health; Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; adding type of care; providing that certain individuals may be held liable for penalties and charged with a financial fine. Effective date.

OK HB3950

Health; Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; adding type of care; penalties; misdemeanor; effective date.

OK HB1472

Health; Alzheimer's Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act; type of care; penalties; misdemeanor; effective date.