SPRINGFIELD -- A new law designed to improve the care and safety of residents in Illinois nursing homes has become a campaign issue in a closely watched race for state Senate.

On Thursday, Democrat Tim Dudley, a Macon County Board member, slammed his Nov. 2 opponent for voting against the proposal.

State Sen. Kyle McCarter, R-Lebanon, was among eight GOP lawmakers who voted "no" on Senate Bill 326 during legislative action this spring.

"Sen. McCarter sent a clear message to our seniors by voting against this bill," Dudley said in a prepared statement Thursday. "If I'm elected I will fight to make sure seniors receive the care they deserve."

McCarter said the changes, which include new staffing requirements, will force nursing homes to raise their rates for private pay clients.

"The mandatory staffing ratios are completely unfunded," McCarter said.

"My opportunity sees this as an opportunity to jab me," McCarter said. "There's more to this bill than meets the eye."

Dudley's comments came as Gov. Pat Quinn signed the legislation into law Thursday while flanked by Attorney General Lisa Madigan, legislative supporters and nursing home advocates.

The changes are aimed stemming at a pattern of violence in Illinois nursing homes, which has been linked to the state's practice of housing younger adults with mental illnesses in nursing homes, rather than in separate facilities.

Dudley and McCarter are vying for the 51st Senate District seat that was vacated by former Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson, R-Greenville, who resigned after suffering a stroke. McCarter was appointed to fill the year left on Watson's term and is now seeking a full term as senator.

Dudley said the new law will shield elderly residents from possible abuse and poor living conditions.

"Our seniors have worked hard their entire lives and they deserve our support and respect," Dudley noted.

McCarter said smaller nursing homes in the region will be forced to charge higher rates to non-Medicaid residents to comply with the more stringent staffing ratios outlined in the measure.

"The cost of doing business will be passed on to loves ones in nursing homes," McCarter said.