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Sponsor Statement for SB 281
Nursing Home and Assisted Living Home Employees

An Act prohibiting employment by nursing facilities and assisted living homes of persons with certain criminal backgrounds.

SB 281 protects senior citizens and vulnerable adults living in nursing and assisted living homes by prohibiting the employment of workers who have been convicted of serious crimes such as domestic violence and sexual assault.

Many residents living within these homes are vulnerable to crimes of physical abuse and exploitation by those entrusted with their care. This bill seeks to protect Alaska's vulnerable population by preventing those with these crime histories from working in assisted living and nursing homes.

Current statute leaves hiring and retaining employees convicted of crimes subject to department regulation. SB 281 explicitly defines the serious crimes that would disqualify an individual from working in nursing and assisted living homes with the purpose of keeping seniors safe.

The welfare of Alaska's senior citizens and vulnerable adults must be a paramount concern for all Alaskans. The Pioneer Homes and other nursing facilities should be a safe haven for our elder population. This bill is a proactive step to ensuring the safety of these residents.

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