Legislation from state Senator Kim LaSata designed to make nursing homes safer has been approved by the Michigan Senate. LaSata tells WSJM News Senate Bill 213 would allow the state’s Long Term Care Ombudsman to inspect a long-term care facility regardless of visitor restrictions. The ombudsman would be allowed in if visitor restrictions last longer than seven days, and for restrictions shorter than seven days, the facility would have to make a good faith effort at a virtual visit. LaSata says the pandemic prevented the ombudsman from entering nursing facilities.
“We need them to be able to continue to go in and protect our loved ones,” LaSata said.
LaSata says the bill was approved on a unanimous vote in the Senate.
“My hope is that the governor signs it. This isn’t a partisan bill. This is a bill that will help to protect anyone in a long-term care facility.”
Before it goes to the governor, the legislation goes to the state House. LaSata says it’s a way to adjust to an unforeseen complication caused by the pandemic.
