CA AB1554

Effective July 1, 2015, prohibits the California Department of Social Services from giving advance notice to licensees before investigating complaints about residential care facilities for the elderly.

Requires onsite investigations to be conducted within one working day for complaints alleging physical abuse, sexual abuse, or imminent danger of death or serious harm, and within 10 days for other complaints.

Establishes civil penalties equal to serious violation penalties under Section 1569.49 per day for licensees or their employees who interfere with or obstruct investigations, and creates similar penalties for discrimination or retaliation against residents or employees who file complaints.

Creates a two-level appeal process for complainants dissatisfied with department investigations or enforcement actions, with appeals first to a program manager and then to the Quality Assurance Unit.

Requires the department to complete investigations within 90 days of receiving complaints (or 30 days for abuse/danger allegations), with possible 30-day extensions if necessary evidence cannot be obtained.