Wisconsin Senate Bill SB155

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Report Pass: 12/1/23
• Engrossed: 1/16/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Notification of certain facility closures, change in type or level of services or means of reimbursement accepted, and care management organization notification of contract termination with a provider that is a nursing home or community-based residential facility.

Impact

By amending existing statutes, SB155 will significantly alter the way nursing homes and CBRFs communicate with their residents and families about relocations and contractual changes. This legislative change underscores the importance of resident and family involvement in care decisions, thereby enhancing overall care management practices. It emphasizes the state’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable populations, particularly through improved transparency and communication protocols related to staffing and service provisions.

Summary

Senate Bill 155 aims to enhance the rights and protections of residents in nursing homes and community-based residential facilities (CBRFs) by requiring longer notice periods regarding relocations and contract terminations. Specifically, the bill mandates that residents receive at least 90 days' written notice—up from the current 30 days—before any relocation takes place. This notice requirement also extends to family members and guardians of the residents, ensuring that they are informed unless the resident explicitly requests that such notifications be withheld. The bill is designed to provide more time for residents and their families to prepare for significant transitions, thereby reducing potential stress and confusion during relocations.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB155 have focused on the balance between operational flexibility for care facilities and the rights of residents. Supporters of the bill argue that the extended notice period will ensure that residents and families are not caught off guard by sudden changes, attributing potential distress to short notice relocations. Conversely, some facility operators express concerns that the increased burden of providing longer notices could adversely impact their administrative capabilities and flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances, such as staffing shortages or sudden changes in business operations. Adversely affecting care management organizations, critics of SB155 suggest that the changes could create logistical challenges that might hinder rather than help resident care.

Notable_points

Although the bill was introduced with a clear objective of protecting residents' rights, supporters have noted that it could lead to potential complications for care management if not implemented alongside adequate resources. Further legislative sessions may address these concerns and explore additional provisions that might ease operational challenges while still ensuring improved protections for residents.