Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced a settlement with Mariner Health Care, Inc. for violations related to the quality of care at their skilled nursing facilities in California. The settlement includes injunctive relief, independent monitoring, payment of costs, and civil penalties for any violations of the injunction or law.

Bonta emphasized the importance of holding skilled nursing facilities accountable for providing proper care, stating, “Skilled nursing facilities should always provide their residents with the highest standard of care.” He added, “My office remains committed to protecting the elderly and disabled and will never tolerate the mistreatment and abuse of our state's most vulnerable residents.”

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón expressed satisfaction with the settlement, stating, “I am pleased with the $15.5 million settlement to hold Mariner Health Care Inc., accountable for its horrific practices and mistreatment of patients in their various skilled nursing facilities locations in California.”

Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price also weighed in, calling the settlement a “significant win for the people of the State of California against Mariner Health Care Inc.” She emphasized the importance of treating patients with compassion, dignity, and respect.

Other district attorneys, including Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeff Rosell and Marin County District Attorney Lori E. Frugoli, also voiced their support for the settlement, highlighting the priority placed on the care and safety of elderly and nursing home residents.

The settlement resolves allegations of violations of California’s Unfair Competition Law and False Advertising Law by Mariner Health Care, including understaffing facilities and subjecting patients to negligent care while inflating ratings. As part of the settlement, Mariner will be required to reform and improve its practices, implement an independent monitor, and pay costs and civil penalties.

The California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse played a key role in investigating and prosecuting the violations. The division receives funding from both federal and state sources to support its efforts in protecting Californians from fraud and abuse.

The stipulated judgment for the settlement can be accessed online for further details.