Texas House Bill HB1971

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to a pilot program conducted by the Department of Aging and Disability Services to authorize certain accreditation surveys of assisted living facilities.

Impact

The bill, if implemented, would modify existing laws related to health and safety regulations governing assisted living facilities. By allowing accredited surveys to replace some state-mandated inspections, the legislation could potentially reduce bureaucratic burdens on facilities while maintaining high safety and care standards. It is anticipated that accredited surveys, which could be more flexible and frequent, might lead to better living conditions and support for residents in these facilities.

Summary

House Bill 1971 aims to establish a pilot program through the Department of Aging and Disability Services that would permit certain accreditation surveys of assisted living facilities to meet the existing life and safety code survey requirements. The bill is designed to streamline the inspection process by allowing accredited surveys to fulfill necessary regulatory requirements, helping to ensure compliance with state standards. It addresses concerns regarding the current inspection methods and seeks to introduce an alternative approach that may enhance the quality and outcomes of the accreditation processes for these facilities.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 1971 revolves around the perception of regulatory oversight. Supporters of the bill argue that the introduction of accredited surveys will improve efficiency and reduce the operational strain on assisted living facilities. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about whether this approach adequately ensures the ongoing welfare of residents, as it may allow for reduced state oversight. The expiration date for the pilot program, set for September 1, 2015, indicates that the efficacy of this approach would be subject to review after its implementation.