Bill > SB01280

This bill expands the responsibilities of the Community Ombudsman program to provide more comprehensive oversight of home and community-based long-term services and supports for adults. The bill broadens the definition of "home care providers" to include not just agencies, but also individual service providers offering long-term support. It establishes that the Community Ombudsman, appointed within the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, will have access to client data with proper consent, allowing them to identify, investigate, and resolve complaints about home and community-based services. The program's expanded duties include raising public awareness, promoting access to services, advocating for long-term care options, coaching individuals in self-advocacy, and providing referrals. The State Ombudsman is required to submit an annual report detailing the program's implementation, number of persons served, complaints filed, and service gaps. The bill also ensures that any health data obtained is protected under HIPAA regulations. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aim to improve support and oversight for elderly and disabled individuals receiving community-based long-term services.

Health and Social Services

Aging Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB01280&which_year=2025