The Joint Legislative Executive Committee on Planning for Aging and Disability Issues convened on June 18, 2025, to address critical challenges facing long-term care facilities in Washington state. The meeting highlighted ongoing staffing shortages and their severe impact on resident care, a concern that has persisted for decades but has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The discussion opened with a focus on the alarming turnover rates among nursing home staff, which have consistently placed Washington in the bottom tier of states for staffing levels. Committee members noted that ombudsmen are reporting increasingly complex needs among residents across various care settings, not limited to nursing homes. This trend underscores a significant gap in the availability of qualified care professionals and direct caregivers.

A key point raised during the meeting was the real danger posed by understaffing, which has led to harmful outcomes for residents, including loss of life. The committee acknowledged the ongoing efforts to address these issues, particularly the challenges of retaining health and long-term care workers as they age or experience burnout.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for systemic changes to improve staffing levels and the quality of care in long-term facilities. The committee plans to continue its work in advocating for solutions to these pressing issues, emphasizing the importance of adequate support for both residents and caregivers in the state.