Advocacy

What We Do

UALA actively represents the interests of assisted living providers through year round advocacy efforts, including:

• Meeting with state legislators and policymakers
• Building relationships with elected officials
• Monitoring legislation and administrative rules that impact assisted living
• Working closely with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and other regulatory agencies
• Providing testimony and expert input during legislative sessions
• Organizing member involvement in advocacy efforts
• Keeping members informed with timely legislative and regulatory updates
• Collaborating with national organizations and healthcare partners on issues affecting senior care

Advocating for What Matters

Our advocacy focuses on issues that directly affect assisted living communities, including:

• Medicaid and New Choices Waiver funding
• Workforce recruitment and retention
• Regulatory improvements
• Resident safety and quality of care
• Emergency preparedness
• Licensing and operational requirements
• Education and workforce development
• Policies that support sustainable assisted living communities

As the needs of our industry evolve, so do our advocacy priorities. We continually engage with members to ensure we are addressing the issues that matter most.

Advocacy in Action

Advocacy doesn't happen only during the legislative session.

Throughout the year, UALA leaders meet with legislators at the Utah State Capitol, tour assisted living communities with elected officials, participate in committee meetings, collaborate with state agencies, and build relationships that create meaningful change for our industry.

These ongoing conversations help policymakers better understand the important role assisted living plays in Utah's healthcare system and the challenges providers face every day.

Advocacy Wins

Increased New Choices Waiver Funding

One of UALA's biggest recent accomplishments was helping secure additional ongoing funding for Utah's New Choices Waiver program, resulting in increased reimbursement rates for assisted living providers.

This was the result of countless meetings with legislators, testimony during the legislative session, collaboration with state agencies, and advocacy from assisted living professionals across Utah.

The increased funding helps strengthen the financial sustainability of assisted living communities while expanding access to care for Utah seniors who rely on the New Choices Waiver.

This is exactly why UALA exists: to advocate for policies that strengthen assisted living and support the providers who care for Utah's seniors every day.

A Stronger Voice Together

The strength of our advocacy comes from our members.

When assisted living professionals share their experiences, invite legislators into their communities, and engage in the legislative process, our collective voice becomes stronger.

UALA provides the leadership, resources, and relationships needed to ensure assisted living remains represented whenever important decisions are being made.

Get Involved