Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB5796

Introduced
9/28/23  
Refer
9/28/23  

Caption

Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act

Impact

The passing of HB5796 would prevent the implementation of new regulations aimed at ensuring minimum staffing levels, which are seen as essential for maintaining quality care. However, supporters of the bill argue that such regulations could lead to more severe staffing shortages, especially in rural areas that already struggle to attract and retain healthcare workers. The bill encourages the establishment of an advisory panel tasked with assessing the nursing home workforce and providing recommendations to strengthen it, while simultaneously decreasing regulatory burdens on these facilities.

Summary

House Bill 5796, titled the 'Protecting Rural Seniors' Access to Care Act', seeks to prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Services from finalizing a proposed rule that would establish minimum staffing requirements for nursing facilities. The bill was introduced as a response to the significant workforce challenges faced by nursing facilities, particularly in rural areas where access to care is becoming increasingly limited. It emphasizes the adverse impacts that stringent staffing mandates could have on the operational viability of these facilities, which are crucial for elderly care.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB5796 revolve around the potential trade-offs between regulatory oversight and operational flexibility for nursing homes. Advocates for the bill assert that without such regulatory constraints, facilities will have greater leeway to manage staffing in a manner that best fits their unique circumstances. Conversely, critics warn that eliminating minimum staffing standards could compromise the quality of care provided to seniors. The bill also highlights challenges posed by a dwindling nursing workforce, with data indicating that many nursing homes are struggling with recruitment and retention—a situation exacerbated by the economic pressures following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Companion Bills

US SB3410

Related Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act

US HB7513

Related Protecting American Seniors’ Access to Care Act

Previously Filed As

US SB3410

Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act

US SB750

Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act

US HB1683

Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act

US HB7513

Protecting American Seniors’ Access to Care Act

US HB1303

Protecting America’s Seniors’ Access to Care Act

US HB3440

Protecting Rural Telehealth Access Act

US HB3227

Ensuring Seniors’ Access to Quality Care Act

US SB1636

Protecting Rural Telehealth Access Act

US HB3514

Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2025

US SB1749

Ensuring Seniors’ Access to Quality Care Act

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