Sen. White's bill aims to protect nursing home residents from neglect

State Senator Bill White has pre-filed legislation he says would limit the length of time in-person visits can be suspended at certain residential care centers in Missouri. 

White says his bill would protect residents from neglect, while ensuring they remain in close, regular contact with a designated caregiver during declared emergency situations. 

White, a Republican from southwest Missouri’s Joplin, says families with a loved one in residential care facilities were devastated by separation during the COVID-19 lockdown. 

The proposal would also allow those residents to designate at least two caregivers who may visit and have physical contact with them during governor-declared states of emergency.