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SB 1368

Relating to an emergency preparedness and contingency operations plan, including temperature regulation, for nursing facility and assisted living facility residents during an emergency; providing penalties.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill mandates nursing and assisted living facilities create emergency plans ensuring safe temperature control for residents during crises, with penalties for non-compliance.

Co-author authorized
#assistedlivingfacilities(s0617) #disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #health--emergencyservices&personnel(i0384) #nursinghomes(i0539)
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Bill Summary · SB 1368

Legislative bill overview

SB 1368 requires nursing facilities and assisted living facilities in Texas to develop and maintain emergency preparedness plans that specifically address temperature regulation for residents during emergencies. The bill establishes penalties for facilities that fail to comply with these requirements.

Why is this important

Extreme temperatures pose serious health risks to elderly and vulnerable populations in institutional care settings. The bill addresses a critical gap in emergency response by mandating facilities plan for maintaining safe indoor temperatures during power outages or weather emergencies—situations that have resulted in resident deaths in Texas facilities during past crises.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: Small facilities may face significant expenses upgrading infrastructure, backup generators, or developing comprehensive temperature management systems
  • Penalty structure clarity: The bill's specific penalty amounts and enforcement mechanisms are not detailed in the summary, raising questions about proportionality and consistency
  • Operational burden: Facilities must coordinate with multiple agencies and suppliers to maintain temperature-controlled environments, potentially straining already-limited administrative resources

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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