Fair Business Practices Act Hearing
Health and Human Services Committee
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Feb 09, 2026
Meeting Information
The Health and Human Services Committee convened to discuss Senate Bill 439, the "Fair Business Practices Act." This bill seeks to enhance consumer protections and transparency for elderly individuals and their families seeking assisted living and personal care homes, specifically addressing the practices and undisclosed fees of referral agencies in this sector.
Meeting Summary
Overview of Senate Bill 439
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The Health and Human Services Committee discussed Senate Bill 439, the "Fair Business Practices Act," aimed at increasing consumer protections and transparency for elderly individuals and their families navigating assisted living and personal care home referral services. [Video 00:10:15] [Video 00:05:00]
Concerns Regarding Referral Agency Practices
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Discussions highlighted significant concerns about undisclosed fees and misleading practices by referral agencies, which often lead to financial exploitation of vulnerable seniors and their families. [Video 00:25:30] [Video 00:18:20]
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Testimonies included personal stories from families who faced unexpected costs and lacked clear information when seeking care for their elderly relatives. [Video 00:25:30] [Video 00:18:20]
Committee Deliberation and Next Steps
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Lawmakers debated the bill's specific language, including definitions for "referral agency" and "undisclosed fees," emphasizing the need for clear regulatory guidelines and avoiding undue administrative burden on agencies. [Video 00:45:00] [Video 00:30:45]
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The committee decided to hold Senate Bill 439 for further review, potential revisions, and additional stakeholder input to refine its provisions. [Video 00:45:00] [Video 00:30:45]
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on Feb 10, 2026
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