Repealing the Staffing Mandate: Why Workforce Solutions Still Matter for SNFs

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced plans to repeal the nursing home staffing rule adopted in 2024. For many skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), this may feel like a relief. The rule required minimum nursing hours per resident and round-the-clock registered nurse coverage, a standard that many providers said was impossible to meet given the workforce crisis.

As reported by McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, federal courts ruled that the staffing rule exceeded CMS’s authority, and Congress had already delayed implementation until 2034. The repeal signals the final step in unwinding the policy. But while the regulation may be going away, the challenge it tried to address has not: nursing homes across the country are still struggling to recruit and retain caregivers.

From Regulation to Workforce Investment

Provider associations and policymakers are now shifting their focus toward solutions that build a sustainable workforce. This includes initiatives such as loan forgiveness, childcare support, housing assistance, and scholarship programs that connect nursing homes with future caregivers. CMS has also pledged $75 million toward nurse recruitment.

Two of the most influential voices in long-term care have emphasized that the real issue is not compliance but capacity:

• AHCA/NCAL welcomed the repeal, with spokesperson Rachel Reeves noting, “Rescinding this rule will also safeguard access to care for millions of seniors for years to come. We welcome the opportunity to work with CMS and Congress on pursuing more supportive policies to strengthen our workforce and enhance quality care in America’s nursing homes.”

• LeadingAge struck a similar note, with senior vice president Linda Couch stating, “Because staff is critical to quality care, LeadingAge will continue to focus on the priority issue of expanding the aging services workforce.”

Both organizations agree that while regulatory relief is welcome, the long-term solution must be a strong, sustainable workforce.

How ReadyCNA Supports the Path Forward

This is where ReadyCNA makes a difference. At Cinematic Health, we designed ReadyCNA to help SNFs and training partners recruit, train, and retain caregivers through immersive, story-driven learning. By blending online modules with in-person skills labs and clinicals, facilities can:

• Attract more students with training that resonates with today’s learners

• Deliver efficient and engaging instruction that meets regulatory standards

• Improve retention by giving CNAs confidence and real-world readiness

Looking Ahead

The repeal of the staffing mandate may close one chapter, but it does not close the book on staffing challenges. The long-term care sector cannot rely on regulations alone. The future depends on how providers invest in people and build pipelines that last.

At Cinematic Health, we believe that workforce development is where care truly begins. ReadyCNA equips providers with the tools to meet today’s challenges and build tomorrow’s caregiving teams. 

If your facility is exploring new ways to strengthen CNA recruitment and training, we would love to show you how ReadyCNA can support your goals.