Three new laws address nursing homes in New York, specifically the problems that became clear due to the coronavirus pandemic.
One establishes a long-term care task force to examine the state of long-term care — both home-based and facility-based — in the state. It considers potential models for improvement and will examine both the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on long-term care as well as the broader long-term system in New York.
Another directs the commissioner of health to implement an infection inspection audit of nursing homes. This will require nursing home facilities to adhere to an evaluation checklist based on core competencies relating to infection control, personal protective equipment, staffing, clinical care, and communication. If a facility is not in compliance, the Department of Health will perform continuous audits until the facility is in compliance. Nursing homes must also designate a staff member in charge of protective equipment and have an infection plan that includes lessons learned from COVID. Penalties may include revocation or suspension of a facility’s license under certain conditions.
The third incorporates the caregiving sector as part of the state’s economic development strategy. It requires the commissioner of economic development to study, develop, and propose how to implement a long-term strategy to support the growth of the caregiving industry in a report that analyzes the support needed to expand it, develop, recruit, and retain a skilled workforce, and bring new modes of delivering caregiving.
“This pandemic has brought to light so many fragilities in the systems we depend on and often take for granted,” said Senator James Skoufis (Orange, Rockland). “Those working or residing in nursing homes saw firsthand the life and death consequences of safety lapses in the face of COVID-19. This law adds new layers of accountability for these nursing home facilities, and I am grateful to Governor Hochul for supporting this important set of guardrails.”
Limo Seatbelts
After the tragic Schoharie County limousine crash in 2018, a new bill was passed requiring all stretch limousines to have a seatbelt in the back of the vehicle for each passenger.
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New Dog Law
No extra fees for Fido
In a change that could affect certain pet owners, insurance companies will no longer be allowed to charge more, or deny homeowners or rental coverage based on the breed of dog they own, in particular, those which are reputed to be aggressive