Over 1.5 million people live in nursing homes in the United States and the number is expected to continue to grow. Families expect nursing homes to provide quality care to their loved ones and yet many are finding that their loved ones are suffering from abuse or neglect. Nursing home liability is not only a state level issue; it is a Federal issue with Federal mandates that must be followed if the nursing home or facility received any type of Federal funding, including accepting Medicare or Medicaid. In 1987 the Federal government created the OBRA 1987 law that defines what is required of nursing homes. In addition to the stated acts that are covered by the OBRA 1987 law, nursing home liability also includes the safety and protection of its residents. Unfortunately, accusations of resident neglect and abuse are becoming more common every day. Family members should familiarize themselves with the law and what nursing homes are required to do for their residents. If the nursing home is not doing what is required, there are steps that can be taken to remedy the situation. When families are contemplating how to proceed in nursing home negligence or abuse, they should find a law firm that specializes in nursing home liability.