This bill mandates the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to assign either paid or volunteer advocates to long-term care facilities. The advocates will have on-site duties that include in-person visits with residents to ensure their financial, health, legal, social, and other needs are adequately met. This new requirement is added to the responsibilities of the ombudsman, which also includes the establishment of an annual long-term care training program focused on residents' rights and other relevant topics.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation from the General Fund to support the implementation of these provisions. The act is designed to enhance the oversight and support for residents in long-term care facilities, ensuring that their needs are addressed effectively through dedicated advocacy. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27G-5