Bill > S03108

This bill amends the Mental Hygiene Law to expand the duties of the independent developmental disability ombudsman program. The key provisions are: 1. The ombudsman program must establish a service delivery structure in New York State that includes a toll-free hotline, an interactive website, and in-person, telephone, and email access to program staff or volunteers. 2. The program must provide assistance to individuals in navigating and completing processes to access services, filing and preparing appeals, addressing any problems encountered, and educating individuals on their rights and responsibilities. 3. Notices and materials provided by the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, service providers, and health homes must include the contact information for the ombudsman program. 4. The program must be awarded to a domestic not-for-profit corporation through a competitive request for proposal process, with preference given to applicants with experience in advocacy, call center operations, and data tracking and reporting.