Essential Caregivers Act Passes House Committee

COLUMBUS – The House Aging and Long-Term Care Committee yesterday unanimously approved House Bill 770, legislation that allows essential caregivers to enter long-term care facilities to provide compassionate care to a facility resident during the COVID-19 state of emergency.

State Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) introduced the Essential Caregivers Act to allow a long-term care facility resident to designate an essential caregiver and at least one alternative essential caregiver to provide support in compassionate care situations.

“Many of our loved ones in long-term care facilities have been struggling with lack of support and human companionship. Some are experiencing emotional distress due to isolation.” said Richardson. “This legislation will help resolve difficult compassionate care situations while keeping important safety precautions in mind.”

Under the bill, essential caregivers must meet certain health and safety requirements, including wearing personal protective equipment and limiting contact with other individuals when outside of the facility. In addition, long-term care facilities are required to develop and implement a visitation policy regulating essential caregivers and alternate essential caregivers.

H.B. 770 was amended in committee to include a number of additional safety measures for facilities and residents, including permitting essential caregivers to visit the resident in a designated visitor space or in the resident’s room and more stringent screening requirements.

“We understand these are challenging times and that there must be a balance between the risk of COVID-19 exposure and the need for compassionate care.” Richardson added.

Leading Age Ohio, Ohio Council for Home Care and Hospice, Elderly Advocates, Disability Advocacy Alliance, and a number of other advocates have voiced their support for the Essential Caregivers Act.

The legislation now awaits a full vote on the House floor.