April 24, 2015
A bill introduced by State Representative Mike D’Agostino (D-Hamden) that would provide greater protections for residents of Continuing-Care Retirement Communities (CCRC’s) was approved Wednesday in the state House of Representatives by a vote of 143 to 0.
House Bill 5358, “An Act Establishing A Bill Of Rights For Residents Of Continuing-Care Retirement Communities” was considered and passed by the General Assembly’s Human Services Committee early this year following a public hearing.
Speaking on the House floor, Rep. D’Agostino explained that his bill “enhances and expands protections for residents of continuing-care retirement communities” by requiring facility providers in Connecticut to engage more frequently and directly with residents, provide residents with notice of construction at the facility and, importantly, notify both residents and the Department of Social Services in advance if a facility seeks material changes to its debt financing.
“The core function of a CCRC is to allow its residents to age in place with dignity and security,” D’Agostino said. “Residents often commit their life savings to a CCRC provider and both the residents, and their legislators expect the CCRC providers to meet those commitments.”
Rep. D’Agostino thanked both the House Human Services Chairwoman, Rep Cathy Abercrombie (D-Meriden) and its Ranking Member, Terrie Wood (R-Darien) for taking a keen interest in the issue and providing bi-partisan support and leadership.
The bill goes next to the state Senate.