Relating to licensing of certain health facilities.
Impact
The provisions of HB 2972 are likely to have a significant impact on the regulatory landscape governing assisted living facilities in Texas. By clearly defining who qualifies as a controlling person, the bill aims to enhance oversight by allowing regulators to identify parties that may exert influence without formal titles. This is particularly important for safeguarding the quality of care and services provided to residents in these facilities, potentially leading to improved standards and practices across the state's assisted living industry.
Summary
House Bill 2972 seeks to clarify the definition of a 'controlling person' within the context of assisted living facilities in Texas. The bill expands the definition to encompass various entities and individuals that may have direct or indirect influence over the management and operation of these facilities. This includes management companies, landlords, and other business entities involved in the operation of assisted living facilities, as well as individuals with familial or personal ties to the owners or managers. The aim is to ensure transparency and accountability in the governance of assisted living facilities, improving how they serve vulnerable populations.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 2972 may arise from the broad criteria established for defining a controlling person. Some stakeholders could argue that the inclusion of various indirect influences might lead to increased regulatory scrutiny and compliance burdens for assisted living facilities. Concerns may also be voiced regarding the potential for stifling operations or imposing excessive regulations on entities that might engage with these facilities. Balancing the need for regulation without imposing undue constraints on facility operations will likely be a critical discussion point as the bill is considered.
Last_action
The bill was last acted upon on June 19, 2009, becoming effective on September 1, 2009.
Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to health care transparency, including advertising, identification, and notice requirements for certain health facilities and health professionals; authorizing administrative and civil penalties.
Relating to the licensing of child-care facilities providing care to certain unaccompanied children and the suspension of laws relating to the licensing of those facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the criminal and licensing consequences of certain offenses relating to the possession of marihuana, certain tetrahydrocannabinols, certain synthetic cannabinoids, and drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee.
Relating to the reporting and investigation of certain allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, the making and investigation of complaints alleging violations of certain health facility licensing requirements, and the content of the employee misconduct registry.
Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.