The battle for what’s best for nursing homes and resident care continues. From staffing minimums to safety requirements, legislators and industry professionals are trying to introduce laws and policies that benefit both residents and the facilities to create a symbiotic relationship between the two. But that’s easier said than done. Recently, California governor Gavin Newsom has attempted to delay a law that could potentially save up to $1 billion.
The Law
The law in question, AB 2511, would have required all nursing home facilities to implement a 96-hour generator backup system. While a huge cost to nursing homes, it is a bigger cost in resident lives without some sort of electrical back up. As seen recently in the LA fires, during major storms, and in the aftermath of earthquakes, some power back up can literally save lives.
AB 2511, if kept, would go into effect in 2026, forcing all facilities to set up the generators. While a seemingly vital part of disaster preparedness, the problem is that it could cost millions for each nursing home to not only install the systems, but potentially adapt all of their HVAC and other facility components.
Governor Newsom Attempts to Delay
Though Newsom signed AB 2511 into law in 2022, facilities have since won multiple requests for effective date extension. As of now, only 34 nursing homes comply fully with the law. Newsom has now included suspending the law in his budget proposal.
Advocates celebrated the law, while facilities panicked in the face of challenges to comply. At the moment, a compromise of 72-hour emergency generators has been proposed by legislators, though it is not confirmed whether the block or alternative will be accepted.
Contact Gharibian Law
If you or a loved one have been the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse, call Gharibian Law (866-958-4052) today for a FREE consultation and the best legal representation.
