Further regulating the Assisted Living Advisory Council
Impact
The bill proposes changes to Section 17 of Chapter 19D of the General Laws, which governs the composition of the Assisted Living Advisory Council. It calls for an increase in the number of members from three to five and mandates the inclusion of representatives from the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association and Leading Age. This broadening of representation is intended to provide a more comprehensive perspective on elder care issues, ensuring that stakeholders from both the industry and consumer advocacy sectors are involved in the advisory process.
Summary
Bill S373, presented by Patricia D. Jehlen, seeks to amend existing regulations regarding the Assisted Living Advisory Council in Massachusetts. Its primary objective is to introduce additional oversight and representation within the council by expanding its membership and including representation from specific organizations related to assisted living. This bill is grounded in the need to ensure that consumer interests are adequately represented in discussions surrounding elder care and assisted living services.
Contention
While the bill appears to have a straightforward objective, its passage may bring to light potential disputes regarding the balance of representation on the council. Critics may voice concerns that adding more representatives from specific organizations might skew the council's focus more towards industry interests at the expense of broader consumer advocacy. As the bill is similar to measures filed in previous sessions, its reception may hinge on ongoing debates about healthcare funding and priorities related to elder care in Massachusetts.