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Subcommittee backs comprehensive study of nursing facilities amid testimony of poor conditions
Summary
House Bill 13 57 would direct the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services to convene a stakeholder work group and conduct a comprehensive study of nursing facility quality, resident safety and operational practices; the subcommittee recommended referral to appropriations 8–0 following emotional testimony from families and advocates.
Delegate McQuinn presented House Bill 13 57 as a comprehensive study focused on improving oversight, accountability, staffing and quality of care in Virginia nursing facilities. The sponsor said the bill is intended to address systemic problems rather than isolated incidents and to provide greater transparency for families and regulators.
Multiple witnesses recounted personal and systemic concerns. Jared Calpe of ARP Virginia referenced national ratings, saying "According to CMS star rating system, Virginia has some of the worst nursing homes in the country in terms of the quality care being provided to residents." Chloe Edwards and other family members described inadequate staffing, failures of basic care and the emotional toll on families. Delegate Tryon read constituent accounts of unsanitary conditions and preventable deaths, underscoring supporter testimony that accountability is needed.
During questioning, members raised concerns about whether the study could result in new obligations for private nursing homes; the patron and supporters said the study would produce findings and that subsequent legislative action would be a separate step. The subcommittee voted to report and refer HB 13 57 to Appropriations on a recommendation of 8–0.
The bill would require the designated department to convene stakeholders and produce formal findings and recommendations; the hearing included both provider and advocacy support as well as detailed personal testimony about resident care.
