A new policy will prohibit discrimination in Connecticut’s long-term care facilities based on factors like race, disability, sexual orientation or medical status under a statute signed into law this month by Gov. Ned Lamont.
The law passed with bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature during the session that concluded on June 4. It was championed by Sen. Jan Hochadel, a Meriden Democrat who co-chairs the General Assembly’s Aging Committee. Hochadel said the bill was one of several reforms aimed at protecting older residents.
“This bill is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that Connecticut remains a place where seniors feel safe and respected as they age,” Hochadel said. “No one should fear being treated differently or unfairly based on who they are. This law will send a clear message that everyone in Connecticut deserves dignity and compassion in their later years.”
Beyond barring discriminatory treatment by staff, the law requires long-term care facilities to post notices of non-discrimination, conduct regular cultural competency training, and uphold residents’ privacy during personal care and medical treatment.
It also empowers the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman to track complaints and authorizes the Department of Public Health to discipline facilities that fail to comply.
When the bill received a public hearing in February, AARP Connecticut was among the organizations to applaud the legislation’s efforts to protect aging LGBTQ residents as they enter long-term care facilities.
“LGBTQ seniors often report staying in the closet when entering long-term care,” Natalie Shurtleff, AARP associate state director, wrote. “Prohibiting discrimination is an important step in ensuring that LGBTQ+ older adults feel welcome and comfortable in their homes.”
