Richardson Reintroduces Compassionate Caregivers Act

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) today reintroduced the Compassionate Caregivers Act, legislation that allows family members access to their loved ones in long-term care facilities in compassionate care situations.

“I have heard concerns from many of my constituents regarding their loved-ones in long-term care facilities,” said Richardson. “While the COVID-19 pandemic remains a threat to our communities, it is my hope that we can balance risk with quality of life and address a real crisis facing our seniors and their families.”

The legislation, House Bill 120, outlines criteria for compassionate care visits, including but not limited to situations in which residents demonstrate behavioral changes due to emotional distress from isolation and end of life circumstances. 

Under the bill, caregivers must meet certain health and safety requirements, including screening for COVID-19 symptoms and wearing personal protective equipment. In addition, long-term care facilities are required to develop and implement a visitation policy regulating compassionate care visits.  

The House Aging and Long-term Care Committee unanimously approved the bill at the end of last General Assembly. Richardson noted that there were no known objections to the bill.

H.B. 120 awaits hearings in the House Families, Aging, and Human Services Committee.