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NC H343

NC H343
Advocacy for Long-Term Care Residents Act


summary

Introduced
03/10/2025
In Committee
03/11/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT APPROPRIATING FUNDS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, DIVISION OF AGING AND ADULT SERVICES, TO ENHANCE PROTECTIONS FOR RESIDENTS OF LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES BY MOVING THE STATE'S LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM TOWARD NATIONAL STANDARDS. Whereas, Ombudsmen serve and protect some of the most vulnerable and needy citizens in our State—residents of nursing homes, adult care homes, and family care homes; and Whereas, Ombudsmen advocate for residents' rights; work to improve the quality of care provided in facilities; and assist residents, family members, and providers in resolving potentially contentious issues without resorting to formal complaint processes, thereby saving the State and residents time and resources; and Whereas, the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services, oversees the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program; Now, therefore,

AI Summary

This bill appropriates funds to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services, specifically allocating $380,000 in recurring funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and $397,000 in recurring funds for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The purpose of this funding is to create four new full-time ombudsman positions within the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. An ombudsman is an official who investigates complaints and advocates for the rights of individuals, in this case specifically protecting residents of long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, adult care homes, and family care homes. The bill aims to bring North Carolina's long-term care ombudsman program closer to national standards, which will enhance protections for some of the state's most vulnerable citizens. By increasing the number of ombudsmen, the state hopes to improve the quality of care in these facilities, help resolve potential conflicts more effectively, and provide better support for residents and their families. The appropriated funds will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance

Sponsors (26)

Last Action

Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House (on 03/11/2025)

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