HB 1946

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Amends provisions related to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman (the Office) and its access to and handling of certain information and records to conform to federal requirements and remove ambiguities. The bill also prohibits interference with or retaliation or reprisals against (i) the Office or its representatives or designees for fulfillment of its functions, responsibilities, or duties or (ii) a person who in good faith complains or provides information to, or otherwise cooperates with, the Office or any of its representatives or designees. The bill requires the Commissioner for Aging and Rehabilitative Services to promulgate regulations regarding the investigation of allegations of interference, retaliation, or reprisals and the implementation of sanctions with respect to such interference, retaliation, or reprisals. The bill also requires the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services to put in place mechanisms to ensure that the Office may (a) analyze, comment on, and monitor the development and implementation of laws, regulations, and policies related to long-term care services and providers or to the health, safety, welfare, and rights of individuals receiving long-term care services; (b) recommend changes to such laws, regulations, and policies; and (c) provide information, recommendations, and the position of the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to public and private agencies, legislators, media, and other persons regarding concerns of individuals receiving long-term care services.