Richardson Testifies on the Compassionate Caregivers Act

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

“We’ve heard from many distraught constituents because they cannot see their loved ones in long-term care facilities,” said Richardson. “The purpose of this bill is to ensure compassionate and life-giving interaction between residents of long-term care facilities and their loved ones.”

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.  

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