Bill > S1212

This bill revises Florida's State Ombudsman Program by consolidating responsibilities previously held by local ombudsman councils into a statewide structure managed by representatives of the Office of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. It redefines the purpose of the Office of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, establishes geographical districts for ombudsmen, and modifies the duties and membership of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Council. The bill also mandates that long-term care facilities must grant representatives of the office access to facilities, residents, and records for specific purposes, and it updates training requirements for these representatives and ombudsmen. The term "ombudsman" is redefined to mean an individual certified by the state ombudsman, and "representative of the office" is introduced to encompass the state ombudsman, employees, and certified ombudsmen. This restructuring aims to streamline operations and enhance the effectiveness of the ombudsman program in protecting the rights, health, safety, and welfare of residents in long-term care facilities.