Relating to the regulation of referral agencies for assisted living facilities; providing a civil penalty.
The proposed changes under HB 1224 would significantly impact existing regulations within the Health and Safety Code by adding a new subchapter specifically for referral agencies. These regulations mandate the completion of a standardized intake form that collects comprehensive information about the client’s needs and preferences, ensuring that referrals are appropriately tailored to the individual. Moreover, referral agencies will be required to verify the status of assisted living facilities against licensing requirements and inform clients of any violations, which is intended to promote higher standards of care and accountability in the industry.
House Bill 1224 focuses on the regulation of referral agencies that assist clients in finding suitable assisted living facilities. The bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability among these agencies by requiring them to provide detailed written disclosures to clients about their services and associated fees prior to making referrals. This effort ensures that clients are well-informed about the referral process, the costs involved, and the facilities they may be directed to, addressing potential conflicts of interest and safeguarding client welfare.
Notably, the bill includes provisions for civil penalties against referral agencies that fail to comply with the new regulations. Each violation could result in a fine of up to $1,000, with each day of non-compliance counting as a separate violation. This enforcement mechanism aims to deter misconduct and encourage adherence to the standards established by the bill. However, there may be concerns regarding the administrative burden that these additional requirements could impose on smaller referral agencies, potentially affecting their business operations and service delivery.