Image of nurses' hands at computer keyboard

New Jersey’s state Legislature recently passed a measure that would set up escrow accounts to protect assisted living residents in the event of a facility shutdown. These protections would support residents who are at risk of getting kicked out of their facilities once they become eligible for Medicaid.

The vote for this measure sailed through the Assembly last week by a vote of 79-to-0. It has been kicked back to the state Senate where it likely will be considered in coming weeks, The Associated Press reported.

The bill would ensure that facilities giving up their operating license must also pay for services that decide how much money should be set aside to pay costs for affected residents. Should a facility declare bankruptcy, any funds left over from paying creditors would help cover support costs.