Bill > SF536

This bill appropriates $300,000 from the state's general fund to the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman for fiscal year 2025-2026, specifically to increase the number of local long-term care ombudsmen. A long-term care ombudsman is a professional who advocates for the rights and quality of life of residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care settings. The funding is additional to any existing appropriations and authorized positions for local ombudsmen. The bill requires that these funds be used to support ombudsmen in their duties, which include conducting site visits and protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents and tenants. Notably, the bill directs the office to prioritize site visits to nursing facilities that have changed ownership in the past year, with a special emphasis on facilities that have transitioned to private equity ownership. This prioritization suggests a concern about potential changes in care quality or resident treatment when facilities change ownership, particularly under private equity management.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=SF536