ALP Two-Person Assist Bill in Governor's Hands

A.7755 (Gottfried)-S.5096 (Golden), legislation that would enable Assisted Living Programs (ALPs) to admit or retain residents who are medically stable, but require more assistance with transferring (commonly referred to as a “two-person assist”), has passed both houses of the Legislature and will shortly be before the governor for his approval or veto.

This legislation would help prevent unnecessary nursing home placement for some individuals who want to remain in the assisted living setting. Some residents may, due to frailty or deconditioning, require some additional assistance in transfer, but are otherwise appropriate for the ALP. This segment of the population could continue to reside in a more home-like setting at a lower cost to the state, and the services can be provided by the ALP with relative ease. This quality of life measure will also result in savings to the Medicaid program because the ALP provides services at a lower cost than a nursing home. 

The bill was brought to the governor on Fri., Oct. 11, and he now has ten days to veto the bill or sign it into law. LeadingAge New York is hearing that the bill will most likely be approved. LeadingAge New York staff will alert members once the bill has been acted upon.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828