The Texas government has announced its intention to sue the Biden administration over a new rule from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that could potentially affect rural nursing homes. The lawsuit is being filed in response to concerns that the new rule puts these facilities at risk of closure, which would have devastating effects on the communities they serve.
The CMS rule in question requires nursing homes to have a minimum number of staff working at all times, including on weekends and holidays. The Texas government argues that this requirement will be especially burdensome for rural facilities, as they often struggle to recruit and retain nursing staff due to their remote locations and limited resources.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been vocal in his opposition to the CMS rule, stating that it would “force many nursing homes to shut down and displace senior residents.” He also expressed concern that the rule could exacerbate staffing shortages in rural areas and lead to a decrease in the quality of care for elderly residents.
The lawsuit is expected to challenge the legality of the CMS rule and seek an injunction to prevent its implementation. The Texas government is also calling on the Biden administration to reconsider the rule and work with state officials to find a solution that does not put rural nursing homes at risk.
Overall, the Texas government’s decision to sue the Biden administration over the CMS rule reflects a larger concern about the impact of federal regulations on rural healthcare providers. The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for nursing homes in Texas and potentially set a precedent for how similar rules are implemented in other states.
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