Relates to access to nursing home residents by essential caregivers

This bill requires nursing homes to allow designated essential caregivers to visit residents even during times when regular visitation is restricted by government orders. An essential caregiver is defined as someone chosen by the resident or their representative to provide daily assistance, emotional support, or companionship. The law mandates that these caregivers must follow specific safety rules set by the facility, and if a caregiver is denied access due to non-compliance, the facility must issue a written warning before restricting access and provide an explanation within 24 hours. Additionally, the bill establishes an official appeals process where the state health department must investigate access denials within 48 hours and can impose fines on facilities that fail to correct violations.