Tennessee House Bill HB0067

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/12/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, Chapter 5, Part 1, relative to intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Impact

If enacted, HB0067 will modify how intermediate care facilities operate within Tennessee. By capping bed counts at 804 and regulating transfers of bed locations, the bill aims to streamline services and ensure that facilities are designed to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities rather than expanding potential profits. The community-informed choice process is intended to put individuals’ needs at the forefront, allowing for placements that accommodate personal preferences and compatibility with existing residents.

Summary

House Bill 67 (HB0067) proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the regulations of intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The bill specifically establishes a cap on the total number of beds permitted in both private for-profit and private not-for-profit facilities, setting a maximum of 804 beds. Furthermore, it introduces a community-informed choice process that must be completed before beds can be filled, emphasizing the importance of integrated and cost-effective placements for individuals.

Contention

Despite its intentions, there are points of contention surrounding this bill. Some stakeholders might argue that limiting bed numbers could create shortages in availability, especially as demand fluctuates. Moreover, the introduction of community-informed choice could be perceived as bureaucratic by certain operators who may argue about the feasibility of assessing compatibility effectively. As the bill moves through the legislative process, these concerns are likely to be a significant aspect of discussions among legislators and healthcare professionals.