What does Preamble of HR 6766 do?

This bill amends titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act. It requires skilled nursing facilities, nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities for the intellectually disabled, and inpatient rehabilitation facilities to permit essential caregivers access. This requirement applies during periods when regular visitation is restricted.

What does SHORT TITLE. of HR 6766 do?

This bill is formally titled the Essential Caregivers Act of 2025.

What does FINDINGS. of HR 6766 do?

This section outlines findings related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing home residents. In 2020, an estimated 1.3 million individuals resided in nursing homes, with nearly half diagnosed with Alzheimer's or related dementia. The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 established residents' rights, including “the right to a dignified existence, self-determination, and communication…”. COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 limited visitation and activities, impacting access for ombudsmen and surveyors. Many residents experienced “failure to thrive” and premature death due to isolation. Staff shortages, exacerbated by a significant number of healthcare worker resignations/terminations, negatively affected resident health. During the pandemic, there were increases in pressure ulcers, weight loss, depression, and antipsychotic medication prescriptions among residents. Loneliness and isolation pose significant threats to health and well-being. Essential caregivers provide supplemental care and advocacy for residents.

What does RIGHT TO ESSENTIAL CAREGIVERS; ACCESS TO ESSENTIAL CAREGIVERS of HR 6766 do?

This section amends the Social Security Act to establish a resident's right to designate and have access to essential caregivers at all times, including during periods of restricted visitation due to emergencies. Skilled nursing facilities must allow at least one essential caregiver daily access to a resident. Facilities may deny access for a limited time (up to 7 days initially, potentially 14 with state approval) under specific circumstances, such as during emergencies, but must allow access to residents in end-of-life care or experiencing decline/distress. If access is denied, facilities must provide written warnings and explanations, and residents/caregivers have options for appeal through a state survey agency. The Secretary of Health and Human Services is directed to promulgate regulations to implement these changes. The legislation clarifies that it does not create new authority for state or local officials or facilities to restrict visitation.

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Essential Caregivers Act of 2025 — HR. 6766

Last updated: 12/16/2025 · Introduced: 12/16/2025

Author: Claudia Tenney (R-NY)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill requires skilled nursing facilities, nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities for the intellectually disabled, and inpatient rehabilitation facilities to permit at least one designated essential caregiver daily access to residents, even during periods of restricted visitation.
Facilities can temporarily deny access (up to 7 days initially) under specific circumstances, but must allow access for residents in end-of-life care or experiencing decline/distress, providing written explanations and appeal options.
The bill establishes a resident's right to essential caregiver access and directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create regulations to implement these changes.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

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