BOSTON, Mass. — The Massachusetts Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys applauded recommendations issued by the Massachusetts Assisted Living Residences Commission that call for stricter health and safety standards at assisted living facilities across the state.
The commission’s final report, released Jan. 12, 2026, outlines a series of reforms aimed at improving oversight and resident protections at assisted living residences. The report is now before the state Legislature, as several of the recommendations would require legislative action. MassNAELA also credited Sen. Montigny and his staff for their role in establishing the commission.
The Assisted Living Residences Commission was created in 2024 to review existing facilities and ensure they meet the evolving needs of the aging population. Its work intensified following a deadly fire at the Gabriel House in Fall River in July 2025 that claimed the lives of 10 residents.
Three MassNAELA members served on the commission alongside state officials, lawmakers, assisted living residents and family members, and elder care providers and advocates. Those members were Lindsay Mitnik, Liane Zeitz, and Kathleen Lynch Moncata, all elder law attorneys who focused on representing the perspectives of residents and lower-income consumers.
“We critically need increased monitoring, oversight, and public reporting of ALRs, so it’s important that the Legislature approve the necessary funding to increase staffing and resources and make other legislative actions that will improve oversight and consumer protections, as advised by the Commission,” Zeitz said.
Clarence Richardson, executive director of MassNAELA, said the organization remains committed to addressing assisted living safety issues raised by the Gabriel House fire.
“MassNAELA is dedicated to raising awareness of and addressing issues related to ALRs, particularly those raised by the Gabriel House fire,” Richardson said. “We fully support the Governor, the Executive Office of Aging and Independence, and the Legislature in acting quickly to implement the report’s regulatory and administrative recommendations to ensure the future health and safety of all assisted living and long-term care residents.”
