Bill > S05746

This bill creates a district long-term care ombudsperson council program to coordinate volunteers in each assembly district, aimed at improving oversight and support for long-term care facilities. The bill establishes that each assembly district will have a district council consisting of a chair, co-chair, secretary, and eight or more trained district advocates, all of whom will receive annual stipends. These district councils will be responsible for coordinating local long-term care ombudsperson programs, with members required to complete annual training and professional development. The state ombudsperson will be responsible for developing training programs, monitoring the performance of local programs, and ensuring the quality of care in long-term care facilities. Each district will receive $810,000 annually to administer the program. The bill also mandates that district councils submit annual reports to the attorney general, detailing their activities, analyzing complaints, evaluating problems experienced by residents, and providing recommendations for improving care. Additionally, the bill updates terminology from "ombudsman" to "ombudsperson" throughout the existing elder law and emphasizes the importance of creating a more structured and comprehensive approach to supporting residents in long-term care facilities.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5746