Assisted living facilities bill passed

The New York State Senate passed legislation that provides a definition of assisted living, establishes a uniform licensing procedure for assisted living facilities and strengthens consumer protections to ensure that residents of assisted living facilities receive the highest quality of care.

"This is a historic agreement, a historic piece of legislation for New York state's seniors," said George Maziarz (62nd District). "Assisted living facilities can be an ideal setting for seniors who need some special care but want to retain a level of independence. Everyone in the assisted living industry agrees these new reforms will ensure that facilities are properly run, and that seniors' needs are met every step of the way."

The bill provides a definition of assisted living and establishes a uniform licensing procedure for assisted living facilities. The process to obtain a license would be based on facilities first obtaining licensure as an adult care facility, and then following additional guidelines in order to become an assisted living facility. In addition, the legislation provides for consumer disclosures and a clear set of consumer rights in order to ensure that residents are provided the highest quality of care and services.

The senate worked together on the bill with health care advocates and health care providers who are supportive of this legislation, which addressees a top priority issue for senior citizens in New York state.

A memorandum of support from the Empire State Association of Adult Homes and Assisted Living Facilities stated: "Assisted living is one of the fastest growing segments of the continuum of long-term care. Establishing a uniform licensing procedure will both protect consumers and allow the provider community to grow to meet the increased demand for care."