The Latest: Governor signs major elder care protections
Posted May 22, 2019 2:13 pm.
ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Latest on preparations for a special session of the Minnesota Legislature and other Capitol developments (all times local):
4:10 p.m.
Gov. Tim Walz has signed into law a major package of protections for Minnesota seniors and vulnerable adults.
The most important component is a framework for licensing assisted-living facilities. Minnesota was the last state without licensing requirements.
The bipartisan bill also has other safeguards to protect older and vulnerable adults, including the right for assisted-living residents and their families to install hidden monitoring cameras. It also includes a bill of rights for assisted-living residents and other stronger consumer protections.
The Democratic governor said Wednesday that the law creates long-overdue protections to help ensure that all residents of assisted-living facilities are cared for and safe.
Republican Sen. Karin Housley, who worked on the legislation for over two years, says it gives elderly and vulnerable Minnesotans the consumer protections they deserve.
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11:30 a.m.
Deals are starting to come together as Gov. Tim Walz and top legislative leaders prepare for a special session to finish work on the state’s next two-year budget.
Walz’s office said Wednesday the Democratic governor, GOP Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka and Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman have resolved the remaining differences that were holding up a tax bill, and bills to fund E-12 education, public safety and environmental programs.
Highlights include more state aid for cities, counties and public school districts.
The leaders agreed earlier this week on funding bills for higher education and agriculture.
The sides still have not yet announced a date or duration for the special session. The leaders expressed hope earlier for a one- or two-day special session late this week.
The Associated Press
