On February 19, 2026, Rhode Island announced a new set of laws aimed at protecting the rights and well-being of elderly individuals residing in long-term care facilities across the state. The legislation, known as the Elderly Resident Care Act, comes in response to growing concerns about the quality of care provided to seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.Under the Elderly Resident Care Act, all long-term care facilities in Rhode Island will be required to meet certain standards of care for elderly residents. This includes providing adequate staffing levels, ensuring that residents receive proper medical attention and medication management, and implementing protocols to prevent abuse and neglect.Additionally, the legislation mandates that all long-term care facilities in the state must undergo regular inspections by the Department of Health to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Facilities found to be in violation of the Elderly Resident Care Act may face fines, license revocation, or other penalties.In a statement regarding the new legislation, Governor Jane Smith emphasized the importance of protecting Rhode Island's elderly population. "Our seniors deserve to live with dignity and respect in their golden years," said Governor Smith. "It is our responsibility to ensure that they receive the highest quality of care possible in long-term care facilities."Advocates for the elderly have praised the introduction of the Elderly Resident Care Act, saying that it represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of Rhode Island's aging population. They hope that the new legislation will serve as a model for other states looking to improve the quality of care for elderly residents in long-term care facilities.Overall, the Elderly Resident Care Act is a positive development for Rhode Island's elderly population, providing them with additional protections and oversight to ensure that they receive the care and respect they deserve in long-term care facilities.