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04/04/2019 12:01 AMState Senator Norm Needleman (D-33) applauded the Human Services Committee’s advancement of legislation to increase nursing home staffing levels. The bill made it out of the Human Services Committee by a unanimous vote. It will go to the State House of Representatives and State Senate floor for further action. Needleman commended the committee for moving this legislation forward. He said this legislation will provide peace of mind for Connecticut families with loved ones in nursing homes.
“I think it is essential that we ensure that nursing homes are staffed adequately to deliver the best possible care for our family members and friends that depend on their services,” Needleman said.
If passed, Raised Senate Bill 1079, “An Act Concerning Nursing Home Facility Minimum Staffing Levels,” will require that all nursing homes have the staff needed to provide a minimum of three hours of direct care to each nursing home resident every day. This includes at least 2 hours and 15 minutes of care provided by registered nurses aides and at least 40 minutes of medical care provided by licensed nurses.
Nursing homes that experience increased costs due to increasing staffing levels will not be left to fend for themselves, Needleman said. The Department of Social Services will adjust nursing homes’ Medicaid rates and provide payment retroactive to the date of the increased costs for any nursing home that sees costs rise due to complying with this proposed legislation. Payment will be made within a reasonable period. Needleman said this is common-sense legislation that will ensure Connecticut’s nursing homes can continue to offer quality care to our loved ones.
This legislation is a Democratic caucus priority as evidence continues to show a link between sufficient nurse staffing levels and improved patient outcomes. Studies also show nurse burnout, job dissatisfaction, and staff turnover are hurting hospitals’ bottom lines and patient satisfaction. This legislation will ensure nurses can be at their best each shift, patients receive optimal care, families can rest easy knowing their loved ones are being taken care of, and nursing homes are in prime position to thrive in Connecticut.