Nursing Homes

The Special Litigation Section has authority under CRIPA to investigate conditions in public nursing homes and to file suit where there is a pattern or practice of violations of the constitutional or federal statutory rights of nursing home residents.  These rights include adequate care and treatment in the nursing home, as well as the right to be served in the most integrated setting appropriate to the needs of the individual as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.

Our nursing home matters focus on issues such as the adequacy of basic medical and nursing care, nutrition and hydration, protecting residents from harm (including abuse and neglect), the provision of needed therapies and activities, and whether residents are being provided with a safe living environment.

During the past several years, the Special Litigation Section has significantly increased its enforcement activities in nursing homes.  The Section has opened five investigations of a number of nursing homes, among them are some of the largest public nursing homes in the United States, representing a wide geographical distribution.   In addition, the Section represents the Civil Rights Division in the Justice Department's Nursing Home Initiative.

For further information, follow the links below: