Strengthening the Attorney General’s tools to protect nursing home residents and other patients from abuse and neglect
Impact
If enacted, the bill would empower the Attorney General to pursue civil penalties against individuals or entities that commit or allow abuse and neglect within nursing homes. The stipulated penalties range from $25,000 for non-injury cases to $250,000 in instances leading to death, reflecting a significant increase in accountability for caregivers. The bill also removes limitations on the timeframe for filing actions related to such offenses, allowing the Attorney General to act within a four-year period post-offense.
Summary
House Bill 616 aims to enhance the authority of the Attorney General in Massachusetts to protect nursing home residents and other patients from abuse and neglect. The bill proposes amendments to Chapter 111 of the General Laws, particularly focusing on the civil enforcement tools available to the Attorney General in cases of abuse, mistreatment, or neglect of patients and residents. By defining the conditions under which the Attorney General can file civil actions, the bill seeks to provide stronger protection for vulnerable populations in various care facilities.
Contention
Stakeholders are likely to debate the implications of increased authority for the Attorney General, especially in terms of potential impacts on healthcare operations. Advocates for the bill argue that the strengthened tools are crucial for deterring abuse and holding negligent parties accountable. However, there may be concerns regarding the balance between enforcement and the operational realities of nursing care facilities, particularly how these heightened stakes might affect staffing and care practices.
An Act Concerning Temporary Nursing Services Agencies, Reporting Of Involuntary Transfers And Discharges From Nursing Homes And Residential Care Homes, Elder Abuse Training, Legal Rights Of Long-term Care Applicants And A Study Of Managed Residential Community Issues.
Secures protections for patients and providers accessing and providing legally protected health care activities; establishes right of residents to legally protected health care services, which are restricted in other states.
Secures protections for patients and providers accessing and providing legally protected health care activities; establishes right of residents to legally protected health care services, which are restricted in other states.