Bill > H979

This bill replaces the existing system of community advisory committees in nursing homes and adult care homes with a new volunteer nursing home and adult care home ombudsman representative program. The key changes include renaming and redefining the roles of volunteers who will now be directly designated and accountable to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. The bill establishes new criteria for volunteer representatives, including requirements that they be county residents, have no financial interest in the facilities they serve, and not be employees or family members of facility residents. Volunteers will be required to complete certification training, will serve without compensation (but can be reimbursed for expenses), and will have the right to enter facilities to investigate conditions and assist residents with grievances. The bill maintains the core purpose of the previous system - promoting community involvement and ensuring quality care for elderly and disabled residents - but streamlines the approach by replacing multi-member committees with individual volunteer representatives. The changes aim to make the oversight process more flexible and responsive, with volunteers having clear responsibilities and direct accountability to the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. The bill will become effective on October 1, 2025, allowing time for implementation of the new volunteer system.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H979