Florida Governor Signs Legislation to Cut Quality of Care in Florida Nursing Homes

Tallahassee, Fla. – AARP Florida today released the following statement regarding the signing of House Bill 485 “Personal Care Attendants,” by Governor Ron DeSantis.

AARP Florida State Director Jeff Johnson said, “The global pandemic merely exposed the ongoing failures of Florida nursing homes, and instead of looking for ways to fix a broken system, state policymakers have given the nursing home industry another opportunity to cut corners. This controversial measure will decrease the quality of care provided in Florida nursing homes at a time when COVID-19 has made it clear that the opposite needs to occur.

“By signing this bill into law, Governor DeSantis is sending a troubling message to older Floridians and their families. This new law will allow nursing homes to hire lesser trained, lesser paid workers in these facilities, entrusting these workers with the care of our most vulnerable citizens.

“Floridians considering long-term care should be aware of the devastating consequences of this new law and understand how it may affect you and your family. If you have a loved one in a Florida nursing home, make sure you know what questions to ask about the care they’re receiving. AARP will continue fighting for older Floridians and their families to ensure their voice is heard when it matters most.”

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AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.