CS/HB 91 Summary: State Ombudsman Program

• Restructures the Office of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman by replacing volunteer-based "ombudsman councils" with appointed "districts" managed directly by the state ombudsman as representatives of the office.

• Changes the definition of "ombudsman" from appointed council members to certified representatives selected by the state ombudsman, with background screening and training requirements.

• Requires the state ombudsman to submit annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and specified agencies detailing complaint data, findings, and recommendations for policy changes.

• Expands conflict of interest rules by requiring the Department of Elderly Affairs to define conflicts of interest in consultation with the state ombudsman and prohibits certain individuals from serving as ombudsmen.

• Effective date: July 1, 2014.