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Committee advances amendment tightening staffing ratios for exempt respite care centers
Summary
An amendment to HB1495 would align exempt respite care centers' staff‑to‑participant ratios with licensed adult day centers; committee members pressed for clarity on background checks, training and DHS oversight before voting to advance the bill.
The sponsor presented an amendment to House Bill 1495 to require exempt respite care centers that serve "appropriate adults" to maintain at least the same direct‑care staff‑to‑participant ratios required for licensed adult day centers; the amendment cross‑references rules promulgated under TCA for adult day services. The sponsor emphasized the amendment mirrors existing ratios and clarified that "appropriate adults" are those who can function in a group setting and do not require assistance for feeding or toileting.
Members asked whether people with Alzheimer's disease would qualify; the sponsor said eligibility depends on the stage of Alzheimer's and functional ability. Committee members also questioned staff training and background‑check requirements. Legal services and the Department of Human Services explained that background checks and fingerprint screening are required for staff in regulated adult day services but that exempt facilities are outside licensure; DHS said it can investigate registered exempt facilities in response to complaints. The committee adopted the amendment and moved HB1495 to Health full.
