AZ HB2226

Establishes the Nursing Care Institution Advisory Council within the Arizona Department of Health Services to advise on oversight of nursing care institutions and issues affecting residents and families

Council responsibilities include analyzing inspection results and penalties, reviewing department adherence to federal guidance, receiving public comments, and developing recommendations for improving quality of care and resident/staff safety

Council membership includes the state long-term care ombudsman, AHCCCS director, and DES director (non-voting); one department surveyor; two nursing care industry representatives (one for-profit, one nonprofit); and four public advocates for nursing home residents

Public members serve five-year terms and the council must meet quarterly with all meetings open to the public; agendas, minutes, and testimony must be posted on the department's website

Council must submit an annual report with analysis and recommendations for legislative or administrative action to the governor, senate president, and house speaker