Texas Senate Bill SB267

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the right of certain facility residents to designate an essential caregiver for in-person visitation.

Impact

The implementation of SB267 would amend existing statutes within the Health and Safety Code, specifically introducing new provisions regarding the rights of residents to have essential caregivers. Facilities would be required to establish visitation schedules and procedures that allow designated caregivers a minimum of two hours of visitation each day. This approach attempts to balance health safety measures, such as requiring personal protective equipment and health screenings, with the emotional and psychosocial needs of residents who may be suffering from separation from loved ones.

Summary

SB267 establishes the right of residents in nursing and assisted living facilities in Texas to designate at least one essential caregiver for in-person visitation. The bill is a legislative response to the challenges faced by residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, where visitation restrictions sometimes led to emotional distress for residents due to isolation. It defines an 'essential caregiver' as a family member, friend, or other individual chosen by the resident for such visits. This bill aims to ensure that residents maintain necessary personal connections for emotional and mental well-being, which is especially crucial for vulnerable populations in long-term care facilities.

Contention

While many advocates and family members of residents support the bill as a critical enhancement of residents' rights, there may be concerns about its implementation, particularly regarding adherence to safety protocols and potential conflicts with existing facility policies. Advocates for residents argue that caregiving support is pivotal for quality of life in facilities and that the legislative backing could help prevent arbitrary restrictions by individual facilities. However, facility administrators may express concerns about the logistics and resources required to meet the mandates of the bill, including the necessity for regular viral testing and tracking visitor interactions.