The Texas Senate is considering a bill that would place more stringent consequences on nursing homes that receive high-level violations. Senate Bill 304, nicknamed the “Three Strikes Rule,” would allow the Department of Aging and Disability Services to shut down nursing homes who receive three violations, for only the highest level of offenses, during a two-year period.
The goal of the bill is to force nursing homes to cease neglect and abuse while pruning out traditionally substandard facilities.
Some are praising the bill as necessary decisive action against repeat offenders, while others are more hesitant. Some lawmakers say that automatic and immediate shutdowns of nursing homes will just lead to more problems, and that facilities with violations wont have enough of a chance to actually change their policies before being forced out of business.
Other complaints are that it would cripple the ability of the Department of Aging and Disability Services, keeping them from working with facilities to create better environments for seniors and instead forcing vulnerable residents out of their homes.
Supporters of the bill, however, counter these criticisms by saying that only facilities who commit dangerous or high-level offenses will be in any danger of closing.
There are certainly many pros and cons to the bill, but regardless it is a good sign that the Texas government is taking senior care seriously. Many states will most likely watch the progress of this bill, and its success could mean similar measures being taken in other states.
South Carolina would do well to pay close attention to the effects of the bill if it is passed, and if it makes progress in helping seniors, then our state legislature should consider a similar bill.
Elder Abuse Attorney Andy Arnold
With extensive experience in defending the rights of South Carolina’s elderly population, Greenville elder abuse attorney Andy Arnold has the knowledge to help you and your loved one with your elder neglect case. If you want to know if you have a feasible elder abuse lawsuit, call 864-242-4800.
