The fourth week of the legislative session is in the books and next week really begins the heavy lifting. First, a recap of this week’s activities:
On Tuesday, January 31, 2023, I had the privilege to represent KHCA/KCAL members in the Senate Public Health & Welfare committee. This committee is chaired by Senator Beverly Gossen and Co-chaired by physician Senator Renee Erickson. During this briefing, I shared data on Nursing Home closures in Kansas, risk for additional closures, the burden of staffing agencies and their related costs, as well as a general overview of the levels of care covered unnder the title “Adult Care Homes.” Many good questions sparked interesting conversations and showed a keen interest in long-term care. If you would like to watch the testimony, click here. To view the documents presented, click here.
KHCA/KCAL is a co-sponsor of a recurring Tuesday Night Legislative Reception. This informative greeting allows for wonderful interaction with your Senators and Representatives.
On Friday, February 3, 2023, the Bob Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community Services and KanCare Oversight meeting was held. I presented similar information regarding the health of long-term care to this committee. To view the testimony, click here. For a copy of documents presented to the committee, click here.
Next week on Tuesday, February 7, I will be testifying on HB 2264 known as the “No patient Left Alone.” This bill allows visitation to certain patients at hospitals, adult care homes and hospice facilities. Click here for a link to the actual bill. We plan to ask for language that allows for exceptions when CMS, CDC or other Federal agencies require other arrangements.
On Wednesday, February 8, at 10:30am, I will present a briefing to the Senate Ways and Means committee. To watch this testimony, click here.
At 1:30 on the same date, I will testify in H-HHS on HB 2049. This bill looks to lower the requirement for CNA training from 90 hours to no more than 75. Click here to read the full text of the bill.
Also at 1:30, I will also run across the hall and testify in the House transportation Committee on HB 2267. This bill allows for the continued common practice of allowing an adult care home to apply for and receive a permanent handicapped tag for the facility van. Click here for the full text of the bill.
Finally, that evening, I will attend a legislative dinner with leadership at the home of John and Joelle Federico.
On Thursday, February 9, I will testify in the House Judiciary Committee on HB 2246. This bill provides for an appeals process for residents’ of state licensed only homes (AL, RHCF, HP) that are issued a notice of 30 day involuntary discharge. Click here to read the full text of the bill.
Last but not least, registration is open for the February 20, 2023 KHCA/KCAL Legislative Day under the Dome. Please make the time to attend this very important event. Our voices will be heard. Click here for more details.
Always, I am honored to represent you. Please contact me should you have any questions or need additional information.
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Linda MowBray
President/CEO
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Kansas Health Care Association and the Kansas Center for Assisted Living
1100 SW Gage Blvd Topeka, KS 66604
PH: 785-267-6003 FAX: 785-267-0833
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