Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB2402

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the right of a resident in a nursing home or related institution to bring an action in court.

Impact

If enacted, HB2402 would significantly impact state laws related to residents' rights within long-term care facilities. The bill requires the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to establish regulations that are consistent with both state and federal law, thus strengthening existing protections against abuse, exploitation, and neglect. It emphasizes not only the legal rights of residents but also their rights to privacy, safety, and personal property, which can foster a more respectful and secure living environment for individuals in nursing homes.

Summary

House Bill 2402 seeks to enhance the rights of residents in nursing homes and related institutions by explicitly allowing them to bring legal actions in court. This proposed legislation amends Section 242.501(a) of the Health and Safety Code, mandating that a comprehensive statement of residents' rights must reflect their unique circumstances and ensure protection against discrimination based on various factors, including age, race, and disability. By including provisions for legal recourse, the bill aims to empower residents and safeguard their dignity and autonomy within these facilities.

Contention

Discussions surrounding this bill are expected to highlight a range of opinions, particularly regarding its implementation and the potential burden it may place on nursing homes. Supporters argue that allowing residents to take legal actions will deter mistreatment and enhance accountability for facility operations. On the other hand, opponents may express concerns that the bill could lead to increased litigation against nursing homes, which could strain their resources and affect the overall quality of care provided to residents. Overall, the bill has stirred dialogue regarding the balance between legal protections for vulnerable populations and the operational realities of care facilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2849

Relating to information about available free or low-cost cellular telephones and free or low-cost cellular telephone service plans provided to residents of certain nursing and assisted living facilities.

TX HB2516

Relating to certain rights and duties of residential tenants and landlords.

TX SB1930

Relating to policies and procedures regarding children placed by the Department of Family and Protective Services in a residential treatment center or qualified residential treatment program.

TX HB320

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

TX SB1179

Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB297

Relating to hospital patients' rights and hospital policies and procedures; providing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4886

Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1056

Relating to the registration of financial institutions and investment firms that lease residential real property.

TX HB794

Relating to limitations on increases in the appraised value for ad valorem tax purposes of residence homesteads and single-family residences other than residence homesteads.

TX HB32

Relating to limitations on increases in the appraised value for ad valorem tax purposes of residence homesteads and single-family residences other than residence homesteads.

Similar Bills

AZ HB2653

Long-term care; reporting; monitoring; injury

TX HB2849

Relating to information about available free or low-cost cellular telephones and free or low-cost cellular telephone service plans provided to residents of certain nursing and assisted living facilities.

OH HB465

Enacts Lauren's Law regarding developmental disability care

AZ HB2785

Health care facilities; electronic monitoring

TX HB1337

Relating to requiring institutions and assisted living facilities to maintain guardianship orders of residents.

AZ HB2784

Electronic monitoring; health care facilities

AZ HB2449

Care facilities; clergy visitation

IL HB5012

NURSING FACILITY-RESIDENCY