The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has issued a reminder to assisted living facilities (ALFs) regarding the expiration of emergency rules related to COVID-19. The letter states that facilities are responsible for developing, implementing, enforcing, and maintaining infection prevention and control policies and procedures to ensure the health and safety of residents. The emergency rules for COVID-19 response, reopening visitation, and vaccination data reporting have all expired and will not be renewed. Facilities must follow the licensing standards in 26 TAC Chapter 553 at all times and adhere to infection control policies, including protocols for face masks, physical distancing, transmission-based precautions, and appropriate use of personal protective equipment. Reporting positive COVID-19 cases to HHSC is no longer required, but facilities must report any resident with a reportable disease to the local health department or the Department of State Health Services.

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