Right to a designated support person for residents of long-term care facilities establishment

This bill (SF 1136) requires long-term care facilities and assisted living facilities in Minnesota to allow residents to have one designated support person physically present with them while at the facility. The designated support person must be chosen by the resident and can include family members, partners, or others related by affinity, but not certified doulas or midwives. Facilities may restrict this right only for medical procedures (like surgery) or if the support person acts violently - restrictions must follow the facility’s grievance process. It directly affects residents of these facilities by expanding their right to choose personal support during care.