Des Moines — Iowa State Sen. Claire Celsi (D-West Des Moines) issued the following statement regarding recent reports on unpaid fees owed by nursing facilities to state agencies.
“Iowans expect accountability and oversight when it comes to taxpayer dollars and enforcement of our state laws, especially when it comes to nursing home care.
The reports regarding unpaid quality assurance fees are just another example of why we need change that brings better oversight of these facilities, and better care for their residents. Ten years is far too long for Iowa taxpayers to wait on these facilities to pay what they owe.
In addition to introducing a comprehensive package to address nursing home safety last session, Senate Democrats called for Government Oversight committee meetings to discuss the ongoing nursing home crisis in Iowa. Republicans have failed to address these issues in any meaningful way, but they have a chance next session to join with Senate Democrats and do the right thing.”
Sen. Celsi is the ranking member of the Senate Oversight Committee.