Senator Hochadel Leads Final Passage of Bill to Prevent Discrimination in Long-Term Care Facilities

Senator Jan Hochadel, co-chair of the Aging Committee, led the state Senate Thursday in securing final passage of H.B. 6913, legislation to prohibit discrimination in Connecticut’s long-term care facilities.

The bill, which originated in the Aging Committee, was approved by the Senate on a bipartisan vote of 26 to 10, following similar support in the House earlier this month. The legislation now heads to Gov. Ned Lamont for his signature.

The proposal prohibits long-term care facilities and their staff from discriminating against residents based on a wide range of characteristics, including race, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or medical status. It also requires facilities to post non-discrimination notices, provide regular cultural competency training for staff, and uphold residents’ privacy during personal care and medical treatment.

“This bill is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that Connecticut remains a place where seniors feel safe and respected as they age,” said Senator Hochadel, D-Meriden. “No one should fear being treated differently or unfairly based on who they are. This law will send a clear message that everyone in Connecticut deserves dignity and compassion in their later years.”

The bill also empowers the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman to record discrimination complaints and gives the Department of Public Health the authority to take disciplinary action against facilities that fail to comply.