Bill > SB319

This bill establishes new provisions for adult protective services provided by county departments of job and family services (JFS), specifically expanding their authority to investigate potential exploitation of adults in long-term care or residential care facilities. The bill defines key terms such as "long-term care facility" and "residential care facility" by referencing existing state code definitions. Under the new provisions, county JFS departments can now investigate reports of exploitation involving adults who do not live in independent living arrangements, focusing on cases where the alleged exploiter is not an employee or service provider of the facility where the adult resides. If an investigation determines that the adult needs protective services, the department must provide those services in accordance with existing state regulations. The bill explicitly states that these new investigative and protective powers are supplemental to the existing duties of the long-term care ombudsman program, ensuring that multiple protective mechanisms remain in place for vulnerable adults in care facilities. This legislation aims to close potential gaps in protective oversight and provide an additional layer of safeguarding for adults in residential care settings.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb319