This bill mandates the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to assign either paid or volunteer advocates to long-term care facilities. The advocates will be responsible for conducting in-person visits with residents to ensure their financial, health, legal, social, and other needs are adequately met. This new requirement is outlined in the amended Section 5 of P.L.1977, c.239, with the addition of subsection i, which specifies the duties of the appointed advocates.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation from the General Fund to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to support the implementation of this new provision. The act is designed to enhance the oversight and support for residents in long-term care facilities, ensuring their rights and needs are prioritized. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27G-5