Bill > SB947

This bill updates statutory language related to long-term care and senior citizens in two key areas. First, in the section about the Nursing Facilities Quality of Care Fee, the bill makes a technical change by transferring responsibility for fifteen ombudsmen from the Department of Human Services to the Office of the Attorney General. Second, in the section about the Oklahoma State Council on Aging and Adult Protective Services, the bill switches the entity responsible for establishing the council from the Attorney General to the Department of Human Services. The bill also includes provisions ensuring that the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman has clear rules about maintaining confidentiality of files and records, including specific guidelines about when and how the identity of complainants or residents can be disclosed. The bill is classified as an emergency measure, which means it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval, underscoring its perceived importance for public health and safety. These changes appear to be primarily administrative in nature, aimed at clarifying organizational responsibilities and improving oversight of long-term care and senior services.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb947&Session=2600