Kosierowski introduces legislation to ensure staff retention at long-term care facilities

Bill would establish grant program, provide accountability for funding

Rep. Bridget M. Kosierowski    January 20, 2022 | 9:17 AM

HARRISBURG, Jan. 19 –  State Rep. Bridget M. Kosierowski, D-Lackawanna, is aiming to address labor shortages currently impacting long-term care facilities across the commonwealth with legislation that would provide retention bonuses to professionals working in the long-term care profession.

“Our long-term care facilities are in trouble,” Kosierowski said. “We know how the pandemic has caused several industries to face labor shortages and, sadly, our long-term care facilities have suffered immensely.”

According to Kosierowski, her legislation would provide retention bonuses to those employed in long-term care facilities in Pennsylvania using $200 million of remaining federal funds from the American Rescue Plan of 2021.

“This program would provide an essential and deserved incentive for those employees who have served residents dependent on their care since the beginning of the pandemic,” Kosierowski said. “It’s time we provide for those who have worked on the front lines during these challenging times and have remained in this profession. Additionally, this legislation would create a program that functions with transparency and would ensure our long-term care facilities are able to be properly staffed and can provide essential care to those who need it most.”

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