New bill package provides more support for Delaware’s aging population

DELAWARE – “We will all grow old, right? Shouldn’t we be putting the necessary work, programs, and structures in place so that we all age safely?”

Delaware lawmakers recently introducing the Long-term Care Legislative package, bills aimed at providing more support for the state’s aging population.

Senate Bill 215 would change how often the Department of Health Quality must inspect assisted living or nursing home facilities going from a ‘regular’ to an annual basis. “Now we’re in need to make sure that we have an oversight framework that can be proactive in surveying to avoid situations that could have bad outcomes and be in a position to respond rapidly when there is a critical situation,”

Senate Bill 216 would double the fine on civil penalties and violations for long term care facilities for reports of abuse and neglect. Bill Sponsor Senator Spiros Mantzavinos said the move would add an extra layer of accountability. “When you think about it, it’s almost been 25 years. Due to inflation, these penalties no longer carry the same impact they did when the statute was first enacted,” he said.

House Bill 300 looks to enhance the oversight and standards for assisted living facilities by requiring accreditation approved by the Department of Health and Human Services Bill Sponsor Representative Kendra Johnson told us that those facilities will also have to maintain certification if they provide dementia related care services. “These additional layers of accountability will make sure our moms, dads, friends, neighbors, and fellow Delawareans are receiving the best and safest treatment possible,” Rep. Johnson said.

Lawmakers say those bills were a byproduct of the work from several organizations, including the recently formed Caucus on Aging and the Long-Term Care and Memory Care Task Force.

The Long-Term Care package has support from legislators in both the House and Senate, along with the Delaware Elder Care Advocacy Coalition.