Numerous bills of interest to long term care providers that passed their originating chamber received favorable committee action this week and are headed for final floor votes.

Bills VHCA-VCAL supports:

LPN PPD and Adult Vaccine Administration – HB 2301 would allow licensed practical nurses to administer vaccines to adults and conduct tuberculin purified protein derivative (PPD) testing without the immediate and direct supervision of a registered nurse.

Advance Medical Directives – HB 1747 and SB 1242 would broaden who can assist individuals with completing advance medical directives.

Durable Do Not Resuscitate Orders – HB 2153 would establish state reciprocity for Durable Do Not Resuscitate (DDNR) orders or other orders regarding life-sustaining treatment executed in accordance with the laws of another state.

Other bills:

Nursing Facility Family Councils – HB 2072 has been amended by the Senate Education and Health Committee to include language specifying that “No family member of a resident or other resident representative shall be restricted from participating in meetings in the facility with the families or resident representatives of other residents in the facility.”  This amendment conforms the bill to existing federal regulations governing family councils.  VHCA-VCAL appreciates that Del. Vivian Watts (D-Annandale), the bill patron, was willing to accept this amendment.

Criminal History Record Checks – Barrier Crimes – SB 1008 clarifies the individual crimes that constitute a barrier for individuals seeking employment at nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and other providers; and applicants for licensure, registration, or approval as assisted living facilities. The bill would also add certain offenses to the list of barrier crimes.  The bill has passed the Senate and has been referred to the Criminal subcommittee of the House Courts of Justice Committee.