Grassley, Daines, McSally Introduce Elder Justice Legislation to Boost Programs, Help Fight COVID in Nursing Homes

Press Release

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sens. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Martha McSally (R-Ariz.) introduced the Emergency Support for Nursing Homes and Elder Justice Reform Act of 2020, which will improve existing programs to protect older Americans while also providing help to nursing homes in light of the COVID-19 pandemic that has posed serious problems for these facilities.

"This virus has taken a serious toll on older Americans and caregivers. The first major outbreak of COVID-19 and a significant number of fatalities have occurred in nursing homes. This bill will provide resources and ramp up accountability to curb the spread and effects of the pandemic. It'll also renew several programs already in effect that protect seniors from abuse and neglect," Grassley said. "I plan to work toward this bill's inclusion in any additional coronavirus relief legislation that may be considered."

"I'm grateful for the important work being done by Montana's nursing homes and assisted living facilities who care for and help keep our most vulnerable populations safe," Daines said. "This bill is critical to ensuring that our senior care facilities have the resources necessary to continue serving and keeping Montana's seniors safe especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic."

The legislation includes several provisions to help nursing homes facing COVID-19 outbreaks, including the establishment of specialty regional "strike teams" that can rapidly respond to new outbreaks and extend COVID-19 related reporting requirements through the end of 2020. The bill calls on states receiving federal relief assistance to devote some funding to televistation programs, so nursing home residents aren't isolated from family amid the stresses of the pandemic.

It also renews and reauthorizes funding for several programs enacted in the Elder Justice Act of 2009, and boosts transparency and accountability measures for underperforming nursing homes.

The Emergency Support for Nursing Homes and Elder Justice Reform Act is endorsed by the Elder Justice Coalition, National Adult Protective Services Association, Alzheimer's Impact Movement and Alzheimer's Association.

More information:
One-page Summary
Section-by-Section Summary
Bill Text

Introduction of this bill follows last month's World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15, 2020), which was established to highlight the widespread problems of abuse, neglect and exploitation of seniors. Grassley's resolution designating June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was unanimously agreed to in the Senate.

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