HB1191 Summary

• Authorizes the Illinois Department on Aging to charge reasonable fees for conferences, trainings, and other programs to cover administrative costs, with rules subject to Illinois Administrative Procedure Act requirements.

• Expands the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program to advocate on behalf of older persons and persons with disabilities in community-based settings and private homes, in addition to existing facility-based services.

• Adds definitions for "participant" (eligible for medical assistance waivers or managed care services), "community-based setting," and "resident" to clarify ombudsman jurisdiction and scope.

• Requires ombudsmen to submit to background checks and receive training before visiting facilities, private homes, or community-based settings, including information on residents' rights.

• Establishes the Long Term Care Ombudsman Fund as a special state treasury fund to support ombudsman program operations.