This bill aims to enhance funding for the Washington state long-term care ombuds program, which is essential for protecting the rights of residents in licensed long-term care facilities. The legislation recognizes that these residents are classified as vulnerable adults and are entitled to specific rights, including dignity and respect in their care. A report from the Department of Commerce highlighted that current funding is inadequate to meet the recommended ratio of one ombudsman for every 2,000 residents, especially as the population in long-term care facilities is expected to grow.

To address these funding challenges, the bill introduces a new requirement for the long-term care ombuds program to develop a funding recommendation by June 1, 2026, and every two years thereafter. This recommendation must ensure sufficient funding to meet the recommended ombudsman-to-resident ratio, account for the growth in licensed long-term care beds, consider inflationary factors, and address administrative needs. The Department of Commerce will submit this funding recommendation to the Office of Financial Management and relevant legislative committees for consideration, thereby ensuring that the program can fulfill its statutory obligations effectively.