Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are an integral part of the aging services workforce.  Unfortunately, many CNA training programs have been suspended in nursing homes due to an outdated provision of federal law, known as the CNA Training Lockout. We must take every opportunity to address the persistent workforce shortages in long-term care, particularly with the proposed federal minimum staffing rule for nursing homes on the horizon.   

The Ensuring Seniors’ Access to Quality Care Act (S. 1749 / H.R. 3227) would allow providers that have demonstrated their return to compliance to restart their training programs rather than having them suspended for a full two years. The House bill was introduced by Representative Estes (R-KS-4), so if you are in his district follow up and thank him for taking action.  Take action today and ask your members of Congress to cosponsor this important bill. 

Previous articleSeeking Feedback on Medicaid 2126 Requests from KDHE 
Next articleCMS Announces Proposed Rule to Strengthen Accrediting Organization Oversight and to Prevent Conflict of Interest 
Kylee Childs, MSW, is the Director of Government Affairs.Since joining the association in 2023, she continues to be a fierce and resourceful advocate for aging services in Kansas. Her professional focus has always been service to others through advocacy. Kylee has a master’s degree in social work from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a bachelor's degree in criminology with a minor in Conflict Analysis and Trauma studies from Kansas State University, and a certificate in Grant Proposal Writing from Fort Hays State University. With a professional background in law enforcement and child welfare, and a successful 2023 legislative practicum with the Children's Alliance of Kansas, she brings rich professional experience to her role as Director of Government Affairs, and a front-line perspective on the needs of health and human services providers in our state. When not working, she's spending time with her two daughters. You can reach Kylee directly at 785.670.8051.