Franks’ Nursing Home Bill Signed

State Rep. Jack Franks (D-Bull Valley) has gotten another of his bills signed. This one requires nursing homes to have heat and air conditioning. Here’s the press release:

Franks’ Bill Requiring Nursing Homes to Have Heating and Air Conditioning Becomes Law

Area Nursing Home Residents Will See Relief from Summer Heat

SPRINGFIELD, IL- Illinois nursing homes are now required by law to have operable heat and air conditioning to help keep residents comfortable since the Governor has signed a bill State Rep. Jack Franks introduced earlier this year.

“It is unacceptable for seniors to live in facilities without functional heating and air conditioning,” Franks said. “My legislation requires all Illinois nursing homes to provide more comfortable and safe conditions for their residents.”

Several phone calls from an area nursing home without air conditioning on a hot day last summer prompted Franks to draft the legislation. House Bill 892 requires all bedrooms and common spaces in nursing homes to have properly functioning air conditioning and heat.

Franks pointed to the Chicago heat wave of 1995 that resulted in 700 deaths to highlight how dangerous extreme temperatures can be for the elderly.

“Concerned citizens frequently help make a difference in the legislative process,” Franks said. “Much of the legislation I have passed through the General Assembly this year has come from the valuable input of local residents. This time, I believe their involvement will save lives.”

The Illinois House and Senate unanimously passed Franks’ measure and the Governor has now signed the bill into law.

For more information, please contact Rep. Franks’ constituent service office at (815) 334-0063.


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