Massachusetts passes Long-Term Care Bill to enhance elder support

The Massachusetts Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (MassNAELA) has expressed support for the recent signing of the Long-Term Care Bill (H.5033) by Governor Maura Healey. This legislation aims to reform the long-term care industry in Massachusetts, which encompasses nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and skilled nursing services. The bill was a collaborative effort among various elder advocacy groups, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in the quality and oversight of long-term care services. MassNAELA, along with other organizations, played a crucial role in advocating for the bill's passage through the state legislature. Their efforts included advising lawmakers on the bill's language and content, ensuring that the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities were prioritized. Key provisions of the legislation focus on preserving pooled special needs trusts for seniors, modifying estate recovery statutes to assist low-income individuals in building generational wealth, and establishing commissions to guide the future of long-term care in the state. The advocacy work of several legislators, including Senators Joanne Comerford, Pat Jehlen, and Mark Montigny, was instrumental in addressing specific issues within the bill. Their collaboration with MassNAELA and other groups like Dignity Alliance and AARP underscores the collective commitment to enhancing the well-being of the elderly population in Massachusetts. The passage of this bill marks a significant step toward improving the long-term care landscape in the state. Overall, the Long-Term Care Bill represents a concerted effort to address longstanding challenges in the care of seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they receive the support and resources necessary for a better quality of life.