FL S7018

Restructures the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program by establishing designated geographic districts, each with local councils, under the direction of a state ombudsman appointed by the Secretary of Elderly Affairs.

Expands the definition of "ombudsman" to include certified individuals serving on councils and program staff, rather than only the head of the office, and creates new appointment and qualification requirements including background screening.

Lowers the minimum age requirement for residents from 60 to 18 years old and adds "exploitation" as an investigative concern alongside abuse and neglect.

Requires each district to conduct quarterly public meetings and mandates the state ombudsman submit annual reports directly to the Governor, Legislature, and specified agencies rather than through the Secretary of Elderly Affairs.

Establishes procedures for conflict of interest determinations, complaint investigation, onsite assessments, and mandatory training (20 hours initial, 10 hours annual continuing education) for all program representatives.