Tennessee House Bill HB2253

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68 and Title 71, relative to long-term care facilities.

Impact

By increasing the minimum number of board members required for long-term care facilities, HB2253 is poised to enhance the governance and operational standards expected from such establishments. This change could lead to improved oversight and accountability, thereby enhancing the quality of care provided to residents in long-term care settings. Additionally, as facilities adapt to these new regulations, there may be implications for staffing and operational practices, which could necessitate further training or adjustments to management structures.

Summary

House Bill 2253 proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting the regulations surrounding long-term care facilities. The bill aims to adjust the requirements for facility management by changing the minimum number of governing body members from 'three or more' to 'seven or more.' This shift in requirements signifies an effort to strengthen oversight and management structures within these facilities, ensuring a more robust governance framework for long-term care services in Tennessee.

Contention

While the bill aims to strengthen the governance of long-term care facilities, it may also face scrutiny regarding the practicality of the new requirements. Stakeholders in the healthcare industry, including facility operators, may raise concerns about the challenges associated with quickly recruiting and maintaining a larger governing body. Moreover, there could be differing opinions on whether this legislative change effectively addresses the underlying issues within long-term care facilities, such as staffing levels or resident care standards.