By K. Lavery, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – Missouri's top two elected officials say they want to protect senior citizens by strengthening nursing home laws. In light of widespread reports of abuse and neglect, Governor Bob Holden and Lieutenant Governor Joe Maxwell are proposing legislation to enact sweeping reforms of the nursing home industry. The proposed bill would hold CEO's accountable for poor performance and assist prosecutors in bringing neglect cases to trial. Maxwell says it would also keep reckless care providers from practicing in Missouri.
The proposal would also increase the amount of time nursing home residents have to initiate complaints regarding violations of their rights.