The hearing was opened for HB2370.

Carly Choi, Revisor of Statutes, provided an overview of HB2370 (Attachment 1).

Jamie Gideon, Kansas Director of State Government Relation, Alzheimer's Association, provided testimony of support of HB2370 (Attachment 2). Families looking for long-term care that provides memory care, it is important to know state-licensed long-term care facilities meet the needs of their loved ones and focus on safe, comprehensive, person-first care for residents living with Alzheimer's or dementia. An example from a positive care placement was provided. In Kansas, facilities can say they provide memory care even if they don't. Many long-term care communities are doing an excellent job. However, there are some bad actors who are taking advantage of Kansans. Give Kansans peace of mind that memory care will not become another avenue for exploiting our older citizens.

Ms. Gideon responded to questions from the committee.

Haely Ordoyne, State Long-term Care Ombudsman, provided testimony in support of HB2370 (Attachment 3). Homes that claim to provide memory care services, but lack training, can often cause harm to the residents. Ms. Ordoyne provided a list of amendments for the committee to consider.

Ms. Ordoyne responded to questions from the committee.

Nina Westvold, Private Citizen, provided testimony in support of HB2370 (Attachment 4). Ms. Westvold provide a personal story about her husband. If there are no consequences for facilities that advertise one level but provide something different, what is there to stop them from doing so.

Ms. Westvold responded to questions from the committee.

Daniel Goodman, Executive Director, Kansas Advocates for Better Care, provided testimony in support of HB2370 (Attachment 5). The bill advances resident safety, care quality, and transparency for families seeking dementia care in assisted living settings. HB2370 strikes a responsible balance. This approach protects choice while strengthening guardrails.

Mr. Goodman responded to questions from the committee.

The following provided proponent written only testimony:

Amanda Randolph, Director of Sales & Marketing, Salina Presbyterian Manor (Attachment 6)

Lorrie Beck, Private Citizen (Attachment 7) 

Kylee Childs, Director of Government Affairs, LeadingAge Kansas, provided testimony in opposition to HB2370 (Attachment 8). Existing licensure and regulatory authority already exist to address dementia care. The bill introduce numerous new requirements that are undefined or subjective, leaving providers without clear guidance on how to comply. There is a risk of discouraging providers from serving residents with cognitive decline. The real issue is misrepresentation and the failure of facilities to follow through with their care plan. Ms. Childs has concerns with possible amendment proposed by the proponents of the bill.

Ms. Childs responded to questions from the committee.

Jessica Easterwood, Executive Director, Assisted Living and Memory Support, provided testimony in opposition to HB2370 (Attachment 9). Families deserve transparency. Residents deserve safety, dignity, and care that evolves as their needs change. Providers who misrepresent services or fail to follow through should be held accountable. Existing regulations already require accountability. The bill uses broad terms that are subjective. Dementia care is not static, it relies on judgment and individualized care plans.

Ms. Easterwood, responded to questions from the committee.

Jennifer Sourk, General Counsel, Midwest Health, Inc., provided testimony in opposition to HB2370 (Attachment 10). Ms. Sourk provided several concerns with the bill. First residents should be able to remain in a facility as they age and experience increased healthcare needs. Residents should have a choice to age in place or move to a dementia care unit. Second, mandatory relocation may force residents away from family or communities. Three, the bill authorizes KDADS to impose penalties based on undefined "unsatisfactory" outcomes. Finally, the bill introduces additional staffing requirements without corresponding resources or reimbursements.

Ms. Sourk responded to questions from the committee.

The following provided neutral written only testimony:

Lacey Hunter, Commissioner, Surveys, Certifications and Credentialing, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (Attachment 11)

The hearing on HB2370 was closed.