Raghib Allie-Brennan

I’m proud to report that a bill I helped lead — HB 6913: An Act Concerning Discrimination in Long-Term Care Facilities — has officially passed the House of Representatives.

This was a top priority for the legislature’s LGBTQ+ Caucus, and as Co-Chair, I worked closely with my colleagues, the Aging Committee, and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman to make sure this bill directly addresses the real issues residents are facing in care settings.

This isn’t a hypothetical. We’ve heard from residents and families, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals and those living with HIV, about repeated mistreatment and discrimination. HB 6913 responds to those experiences by setting clear expectations for fairness, safety, and dignity.

The bill prohibits discrimination in long-term care facilities based on race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, HIV status, disability, and other protected characteristics. It ensures that all residents in nursing homes and assisted living communities are treated with respect and care.

And let me be clear: this bill is not about punishing anyone for making an honest mistake. It’s about preventing repeated, targeted mistreatment, and giving staff the training and tools they need to provide inclusive, compassionate care.

Thank you to the Aging Committee and my fellow LGBTQ+ Caucus members. This was a true team effort and a meaningful step forward for equity in long-term care.

HB 6913 now heads to the Senate, and I’ll keep you updated as it moves forward.