FL S0500

Establishes the Senior Advocate Program in the Office of Public and Professional Guardians within the Department of Elderly Affairs to protect legal rights, dignity, and quality of life for vulnerable seniors age 60 and older.

Authorizes the department secretary to appoint senior advocates who must be at least 18 years old, pass background screening, and receive department training before working with seniors.

Requires state agencies to allow senior advocates to inspect and copy all records related to seniors, including confidential or exempt records, which advocates must maintain as confidential.

Permits senior advocates to enter long-term care facilities without advance notice or a warrant to perform their duties.

Appropriates $660,000 in recurring funds and $13,200 in nonrecurring funds for fiscal year 2018-2019, establishes 11 full-time positions, and takes effect July 1, 2018.