I write in strong support of HB 1357, which directs the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services to conduct a comprehensive study of nursing facilities across the Commonwealth. This legislation is both timely and necessary to ensure that our seniors and individuals with disabilities receive care that is safe, dignified, and centered on their well-being. Nursing facilities serve some of Virginia’s most vulnerable residents. Families entrust these institutions with the care of their loved ones, often during the most fragile stages of life. HB 1357 acknowledges this responsibility by calling for a thorough review of quality of care, resident safety, staffing, and operational practices. A comprehensive study paired with the formation of a knowledgeable work group -creates an opportunity to identify gaps, highlight best practices, and recommend meaningful improvements grounded in real data and lived experiences. This legislation also reflects a commitment to accountability and transparency. By requiring a formal report, HB 1357 ensures that findings are shared with policymakers, advocates, and the public, fostering informed decision-making and long-term systemic improvements. It moves the Commonwealth beyond reactive responses toward proactive oversight and continuous quality improvement. Importantly, HB 1357 brings multiple stakeholders to the table, recognizing that improving nursing facility care requires collaboration among providers, regulators, advocates, residents, and families. This inclusive approach strengthens trust and encourages solutions that are practical, compassionate, and sustainable. Virginia’s aging population is growing, and with it comes an increased demand for high-quality long-term care. HB 1357 positions the Commonwealth to meet this demand responsibly by examining what is working, what is not, and how we can do better. Supporting this bill is a clear statement that Virginia values the safety, dignity, and quality of life of its older adults and individuals receiving rehabilitative services. For these reasons, I urge support for HB 1357 and commend the General Assembly for prioritizing the care and protection of some of our most vulnerable residents.

I write in strong support of HB 1357, which directs the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services to conduct a comprehensive study of nursing facilities across the Commonwealth. This legislation is both timely and necessary to ensure that our seniors and individuals with disabilities receive care that is safe, dignified, and centered on their well-being. Nursing facilities serve some of Virginia’s most vulnerable residents. Families entrust these institutions with the care of their loved ones, often during the most fragile stages of life. HB 1357 acknowledges this responsibility by calling for a thorough review of quality of care, resident safety, staffing, and operational practices. A comprehensive study paired with the formation of a knowledgeable work group -creates an opportunity to identify gaps, highlight best practices, and recommend meaningful improvements grounded in real data and lived experiences. This legislation also reflects a commitment to accountability and transparency. By requiring a formal report, HB 1357 ensures that findings are shared with policymakers, advocates, and the public, fostering informed decision-making and long-term systemic improvements. It moves the Commonwealth beyond reactive responses toward proactive oversight and continuous quality improvement. Importantly, HB 1357 brings multiple stakeholders to the table, recognizing that improving nursing facility care requires collaboration among providers, regulators, advocates, residents, and families. This inclusive approach strengthens trust and encourages solutions that are practical, compassionate, and sustainable. Virginia’s aging population is growing, and with it comes an increased demand for high-quality long-term care. HB 1357 positions the Commonwealth to meet this demand responsibly by examining what is working, what is not, and how we can do better. Supporting this bill is a clear statement that Virginia values the safety, dignity, and quality of life of its older adults and individuals receiving rehabilitative services. For these reasons, I urge support for HB 1357 and commend the General Assembly for prioritizing the care and protection of some of our most vulnerable residents.