Modifies provisions relating to inspections of certain long-term care facilities

SB 689 modifies Missouri's licensing and inspection rules for long-term care facilities, directly affecting facilities seeking new licenses or renewing existing ones. The bill requires facilities to meet specific criteria before licensing, including financial capacity, no felony convictions related to healthcare, and compliance with state standards. It mandates at least one unannounced annual inspection by the state department and allows facilities accredited by the Joint Commission to skip routine inspections (though inspections for violations remain required). The bill also clarifies that the department can seek court orders to access facilities refusing inspections. These changes aim to streamline oversight while maintaining safety standards for residents.