WHEREAS, the State of Nevada is committed to ensuring the health, safety, welfare, and rights of all residents, particularly those residing in long-term care and assisted living facilities; and

WHEREAS, there are 595 licensed long-term care facilities and 16,762 long-term care beds across the state of Nevada, providing essential care and services for residents who rely on these facilities to maintain their quality of life; and

WHEREAS, Resident's Rights Month, celebrated every October, was established to honor the dignity and rights of all residents, and to increase awareness and understanding of the care and respect they deserve; and

WHEREAS, this year's theme, "The Power of My Voice" emphasizes the importance of ensuring that residents feel supported, heard, and respected, while promoting person-centered care that honors individual choices; and

WHEREAS, it is imperative that residents and their families are informed about their rights, including the right to privacy, participation in their care, freedom from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and the right to make their own decisions; and

WHEREAS, recognizing and upholding these rights raises a supportive community, empowering residents to lead lives with dignity, autonomy, and self-determination; and

WHEREAS, the State of Nevada acknowledges the valuable contributions made by facility staff, caregivers, volunteers, advocates, and residents themselves in promoting quality care and respect for residents' rights;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim the month of October 2024 as

RESIDENT RIGHTS MONTH IN NEVADA