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Guam committee hears Bill 31 to expand assisted‑living options as island’s elderly population grows
Summary
Bill 31, introduced by Senator Will Parkinson, would create a statutory and regulatory framework for assisted living facilities on Guam. Supporters and agencies said the measure addresses a service gap; Department of Public Health and Social Services recommended technical changes and warned Medicaid currently does not pay room and board.
Senator Will Parkinson introduced Bill 31 on Feb. 19, proposing statutory and regulatory changes to expand assisted‑living options on Guam and to create qualifying certificates and licensing pathways for new facilities. The measure aims to fill a gap between independent living and nursing‑home care for seniors who need daily assistance but not 24‑hour skilled nursing.
Why it matters: The island’s aging population and limited assisted‑living capacity leave some older adults stuck in hospitals or without safe alternatives. Advocates said the bill would attract investment and permit a range of residential care models; public health officials recommended precise definitions and noted state/territorial Medicaid limits on what services federal Medicaid will cover.
Senator Will Parkinson opened the hearing by saying Guam’s aging population “must ensure that our elderly, our many…
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