On February 4, Associate Policy Director Karrington Anderson submitted testimony before the Senate Finance Committee in support of SB 376 – Health Facilities – Delegation of Inspection Authority – Nursing Homes. This bill extends authority to local governments requesting to oversee and maintain standards for nursing homes.
The provisions of this bill reflect a strong state-local partnership. Some counties have numerous nursing homes, while others have only a few—but all require accountability and effective enforcement. Allowing local governments to assist with inspections ensures that no facility goes unchecked simply due to limited State resources.
Nursing homes provide critical care to some of Maryland’s most vulnerable residents, making it essential that they adhere to strict health and safety regulations. However, enforcement can be challenging due to staffing shortages and high vacancy rates at the state level. By allowing local agencies to step in when they are able, this bill strengthens oversight and ensures that all nursing home residents receive safe and reliable care.
SB 376’s cross-file, HB 429, was heard on February 6 in the House Health and Government Operations Committee. Karrington Anderson testified in support of this bill.
SB 376 was heard in the opposite chamber, the Health and Government Operations Committee, on March 27. MACo submitted written testimony in support of this bill.
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