SAINT PAUL, MN—Rep. Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea, has introduced legislation that would create a grant program for assisted living facilities with infrastructure maintenance or assistive technology that would help keep seniors in assisted living facilities rather than being placed in nursing homes.
"Assisted living facilities help provide quality care for our elders each & every day," Bennett said. "One common concern I've heard, as I've spoken with staff and managers at assisted living facilities, is the struggle that these facilities go through to stay financially afloat while keeping up with maintenance and repairs to their homes & facilities. It's my hope this grant program can help alleviate some of that pressure."
Bennett said the bill was inspired by her visit to an assisted living facility in Albert Lea
earlier this month with House Speaker Kurt Daudt, where they heard from staff about the struggle to pay for technology upgrades such as chair lifts, as well as basic maintenance for the home, in addition to staff, care, and other costs. The bill was referred to the Aging and Long-Term Care Policy Committee, where it awaits its first hearing.
###