Session: State Capitol, Room 414 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-4939 Fax: (907) 465-2418 Interim 716 W 4th Avenue, Suite 620 Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone: (907) 269-0244 Fax: (907) 269-0248 APOC Contribution Reports Bill Action & Status Inquiry System

Sponsor Statement for HB 124
Nursing Home and Assisted Living Homes Employees and Visitors

An Act prohibiting nursing facilities and assisted living homes from employing or allowing access by persons with certain criminal backgrounds, with exceptions.

The welfare of Alaska's senior citizens and vulnerable adults must be a paramount concern for all Alaskans. As the state sees the continued utilization of the Pioneer's Homes and other nursing facilities as a safe haven for our elder population, we need to be proactive to insure the safety of our most revered residents.

Due to the disability or immobility of some residents, they are at risk of falling victim to crimes of physical abuse and exploitation as well as negligent acts by other residents or the facility itself. House Bill 124 aims to decrease this risk by implementing statutorial changes to protect our aged population.

These changes include limiting the access of workers who have exhibited a serious criminal history; requiring all Assisted Living Homes which receive public funding to be licensed regardless of the number of residents; allowing for emergency termination of a housing contract for residents who represent an immediate threat to other residents, themselves, or the home; and allowing the state to take over operation of a home when the residence is non-compliant and therefore represents a risk for residents.

The changes incorporated into this legislation represent a coordinated effort on behalf of various Administrative departments and the Legislature to draft regulatory and statutory changes to implement the protectionary measures for the benefit of Alaska's vulnerable population. I urge you to support the protection of Alaska's seniors with support of House Bill 124.

# # #

| Rep. Halcro's Page |

| Top | Home | Site Search | Breaking News | Legislators | Bills |
| Committees | E-Newsletter | Surveys | Research | Help |

The Official Web Site of the House and Senate Legislative Majorities
for the 22nd Alaska State Legislature
To Report Technical Problems or Contact Webmasters