Richardson Speaks to Ohio Senate on the Compassionate Caregivers Act

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) today gave sponsor testimony on the House Bill 120 to the Senate Health Committee. The legislation, known as the Compassionate Caregivers Act, allows family members access to their loved ones in long-term care facilities in compassionate care situations.

“During the last fifteen months, countless Ohioans have contacted my office and those of many of my colleagues regarding concerns about access to their loved ones,” said Richardson. “This bill will ensure that access cannot be denied when compassionate care is needed.”

The bill 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.  

Richardson implored the committee to consider amending the bill to create a permanent policy that would ensure and provide compassionate care access in any future pandemic.

H.B. 120 awaits additional hearings in the Senate Health Committee.