Relating to the regulation of referral agencies for assisted living facilities; providing a civil penalty.
The legislation is anticipated to impact the state laws regulating referral services by instituting new standards for agency operations. This includes mandates for a standardized intake form that gathers comprehensive information about clients’ needs, such as medical history, daily living assistance, and preferences regarding care. Such measures are designed to ensure that referrals are tailored to meet the individual needs of clients, thereby improving the quality of care and outcomes for individuals seeking assisted living options.
House Bill 2928 aims to regulate referral agencies that assist clients in selecting assisted living facilities. Under the proposed amendments to the Health and Safety Code, the bill establishes guidelines for referral agencies to follow, ensuring they provide transparent and informed assistance. Key provisions include mandatory written disclosures to clients regarding agency services, fees, and potential conflicts of interest, thereby promoting accountability and trust in the referral process.
Though the bill is viewed favorably by proponents who emphasize consumer protection and improved agency accountability, potential points of contention may arise from industry stakeholders concerned about the imposition of additional regulatory burdens. Referral agencies may argue that the requirements could lead to increased operational costs, which might be passed onto clients. There may also be concerns regarding the enforcement of civil penalties for non-compliance, with critics suggesting that such measures could disproportionately affect smaller agencies and limit their ability to operate efficiently.
Should HB 2928 be enacted, it mandates the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to develop rules necessary for the implementation of these regulations, with a scheduled effective date of September 1, 2025. The new regulations aim to enhance oversight of referral agencies, ensuring they adhere to the required standards and provide necessary consumer protections while navigating the competitive landscape of assisted living services.