Garden State Times

Legislation sponsored by Senator Robert Singer aimed at protecting residents of long-term care facilities in New Jersey has made significant progress. The bill, which focuses on preventing Medicaid application assistors from charging for their services, received approval from the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.

In a statement, Singer (R-30) expressed his concerns about the current situation, stating, "A growing number of Medicaid specialists have moved into the nursing home industry, telling families that they can help them qualify for Medicaid. However, some of these Medicaid advisors are bad actors." He emphasized that the proposed legislation is designed to create additional safeguards to shield vulnerable residents from predatory practices.

The bill, known as S-1962, includes provisions that prohibit certain individuals associated with long-term care facilities from acting as attorneys-in-fact for residents or individuals in the admission process. Additionally, the Department of Health may develop a standard resident admission agreement under this legislation.

Senator Singer's initiative aims to address a pressing issue affecting individuals in long-term care facilities and ensure their protection from potential exploitation. For further inquiries about the legislation, individuals are encouraged to contact Jonathan Azzara in the SRO communications department at [email protected].