(1) Conduct a study to determine whether the staffing ratios and
standards provided in this Act are sufficient to meet the needs of residents in nursing
facilities including determining appropriate levels of staffing based on resident
acuity; and

(2) Recommend, if necessary, a methodology for determining appropriate
levels of staffing.

(b) In conducting the study, the Department shall consider recommendations
from nursing facilities, licensed health care providers, advocacy groups, and other
interested parties.

(c) On or before January 2001 and every 5 years thereafter, the Department
shall submit its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly, in
accordance with § 2-1246 of the State Government Article.

SECTION 3. AND BE IT FURTHER ENACTED, That this Act shall take effect
October 1, 1999.

(a) There is a Task Force on Staffing Requirements in Nursing Facilities.

(b) The Task Force shall consist of the following members:

(1) a member of the Senate Finance Committee, appointed by the
President of the Senate;

(2) a member of the House Environmental Matters Committee,
appointed by the Speaker of the House;

(3) the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, or the Secretary's

designee;

(4) two representatives from the nursing facility industry appointed by
the Governor;

(5) a registered nurse with training and experience in geriatric medicine,
appointed by the Governor;

(6) a certified nursing assistant with training and experience in geriatric
medicine, appointed by the Governor;

(7) a licensed physician with training and experience in geriatric
medicine, appointed by the Governor;

(8) a licensed social worker, appointed by the Governor;

(9) a representative from a local union representing employees in
nursing facilities, appointed by the Governor;

(10) a public member representing a patient advocacy group for seniors;
appointed by the Governor; and

(11) two consumers of nursing facility services which may include a
consumer who has a relative in a nursing facility, appointed by the Governor.