LANSING, Mich. — A set of bills introduced by state Sen. Ruth Johnson and Rep. Gina Johnsen would prevent a qualified health care facility from stopping a patient from seeing their representative during a pandemic.
“Some of our state’s most vulnerable residents were left isolated and alone,” said Johnson, R-Holly. “When a loved one can’t visit a family member, when a child can’t even visit a parent when they are dying — that robs us of our humanity. It should never happen.”
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Michigan residents lost family members and loved ones who were being treated in health care facilities and were heartbreakingly prohibited from visiting them even in their final hours. This should not be allowed during a pandemic or under any circumstance. These bills will ensure that patients will be able to see their loved ones when they need them most.
“I’m pleased to team with Sen. Johnson on this issue that is important to all of us,” said Johnsen, R-Lake Odessa. “Each one of us may be forced to endure a similar heartbreaking situation that so many Michiganders experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The concept of denying a dying patient the love and support of their loved ones in their final moments on earth is truly unfathomable. Patients have the right to say goodbye.”
Johnson’s bill, Senate Bill 400, was referred to the Senate Oversight Committee. Johnsen’s identical bill, House Bill 4830, was referred to the House Health Policy Committee for consideration. Both bills remain under consideration.
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