Nursing homes; require to purchase and maintain a minimum amount of liability insurance.
Impact
The bill modifies existing Mississippi legislation, specifically amending Sections 43-11-7 and 43-11-9 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, to ensure that new liability insurance requirements align with state standards for nursing facilities. As a result, facilities will not be able to operate without providing proof of the requisite insurance to the State Department of Health. This will impose an additional operational requirement on nursing homes, which may impact their financial planning and compliance with state health regulations.
Summary
House Bill 858 mandates that nursing home owners or operators in Mississippi must purchase and maintain a minimum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) in liability insurance for each facility. This insurance coverage is intended to provide financial protection per occurrence of negligence involving residents. The bill defines 'nursing home' broadly, encompassing various types of care facilities such as personal care homes, assisted living facilities, retirement homes, and hospice care services, thus significantly affecting a wide range of long-term care options available to the elderly and infirm in the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 858 could arise from discussions regarding the implications of mandated liability insurance on the operations of nursing homes. Opponents may argue that requiring such a significant minimum insurance coverage may lead to increased operational costs, potentially raising the fees charged to residents. Conversely, proponents might assert that the measure is essential for protecting residents and ensuring that facilities are held accountable for negligent care. Ensuring that nursing homes communicate their insurance status to residents through conspicuous disclosures in contracts and signage is also a focal point of the legislation, thereby emphasizing transparency and consumer rights.