A1365A

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring nursing homes to develop plans for adequate storage space for deceased persons in the event of mass casualty disasters, passing 38-21 with significant Republican opposition. Assembly Bill 1365A, sponsored by Sen. Skoufis, was prompted by pandemic conditions when bodies were stored in freezer trucks outside nursing homes. The bill requires facilities to develop plans ahead of emergencies that may result in excess mortality overwhelming facility capacity. Skoufis said the measure does not mandate construction but allows multiple alternatives including contracting with mobile units, and noted nursing homes must handle bodies on their premises until funeral homes retrieve them. Opponents, including Sens. Borrello and Helming, argued the bill unfairly burdens already-struggling nursing homes facing low reimbursement rates, staffing shortages, and closures. Borrello contended responsibility should fall to funeral homes and morgues already equipped and trained for body handling. Helming cited recent nursing home closures creating care deserts and argued resources should address bed shortages rather than impose additional regulatory burdens. The bill takes effect 60 days after becoming law.