Governor JB Pritzker is signing a new law to improve nursing home care for elderly Illinoisans.
The Governor says this historic law will provide increased Medicaid funding to nursing homes that meet certain staffing and quality standards.
“With today’s signing, Illinois will no longer tolerate an emphasis on profits over people. Especially at the expense of our most vulnerable seniors. Now when nursing home provide better care, they will be rewarded.”
The law invests an additional $700 million into Illinois nursing homes with Medicaid patients. Funding will be based on facilities meeting certain staffing levels and quality of care standards. About 70% of nursing home residents in the state qualify for Medicaid.
The law also includes a new pay scale for certified nursing assistants, based on years of experience.
