Gov. Rick Scott implements new rules in nursing homes

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Photo via WINK News

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. Gov. Rick Scott issued emergency requirements for the state’s nursing homes Saturday.

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are required to obtain generators that will provide backup power for up to four days, according to Scott. The homes have 60 days to comply.

The announcement came after eight people died in a sweltering hot Broward County nursing home.

Charlotte County emergency services Chief Bill Van Heldon agrees with Scott’s new emergency orders after the county faced complications with evacuations during and after Hurricane Irma.

“This storm exposed every weakness we ever could have had when it comes to nursing homes,” Van Heldon said.

In Charlotte County, more than 2,200 seniors were evacuated to special needs shelters across Southwest Florida ahead of Hurricane Irma.

Private facilities will have to bear the costs of the new rules, but emergency responders believe it’s worth the price.

“This will save lives. I have no doubt about it,” Van Heldon said.

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