New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02652

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  

Caption

Relates to safe staffing levels at nursing homes; requires the department of health to give significant weight to labor supply shortages in particular regions during any declared statewide disaster emergency.

Summary

Bill S02652 aims to amend the public health law regarding safe staffing levels at nursing homes in New York. The bill introduces provisions that require the Department of Health to consider regional labor supply shortages when assessing compliance with staffing regulations. Specifically, it allows nursing homes to avoid penalties for staffing shortages during and for one year following any declared statewide disaster emergency, provided that the shortages are due to labor supply issues rather than routine staffing needs.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would modify existing regulations on staffing levels at nursing homes, providing more flexibility for facilities facing labor shortages during emergencies. It would also impact how the Department of Health evaluates compliance, potentially reducing the number of penalties imposed on nursing homes unable to meet staffing requirements due to external factors such as regional labor shortages.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S02652 appears to be mixed, with some support for the recognition of labor shortages during emergencies, while concerns may exist regarding the potential for reduced accountability for nursing homes in maintaining adequate staffing levels. However, specific voting history and committee discussions are not available to provide a clearer picture of overall sentiment.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the balance between ensuring adequate staffing in nursing homes and allowing for flexibility during emergencies. Advocates for patient care may argue that the bill could lead to insufficient staffing if nursing homes are not held accountable, while supporters may emphasize the need for practical solutions during labor shortages.

Companion Bills

NY A03389

Same As Relates to safe staffing levels at nursing homes; requires the department of health to give significant weight to labor supply shortages in particular regions during any declared statewide disaster emergency.

Previously Filed As

NY S03029

Relates to safe staffing levels at nursing homes; requires the department of health to give significant weight to labor supply shortages in particular regions during any declared statewide disaster emergency.

NY A03147

Relates to safe staffing levels at nursing homes; requires the department of health to give significant weight to labor supply shortages in particular regions during any declared statewide disaster emergency.

NY A03389

Relates to safe staffing levels at nursing homes; requires the department of health to give significant weight to labor supply shortages in particular regions during any declared statewide disaster emergency.

NY HB172

Safe Staffing Act & Nursing Homes

NY SB582

Health and care facilities: licensing during emergencies or disasters.

NY SF527

A bill for an act relating to nursing facility staffing requirements.

NY S3976

Prohibits hospital, during public health emergency or critical staffing shortage, to rely exclusively on vendor management systems.

NY SB695

Transportation: climate resiliency: projects of statewide and regional significance.

NY HB964

Relating to the regulation of laboratory developed tests during a federally declared public health emergency.

NY S2858

The "Certified Medication Aide in Nursing Homes Staffing Support Act;" authorizes certified medication aides to administer medications to nursing home residents.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.