MD HB671

Beginning in fiscal year 2027, the Governor must include at least 3% of funds collected from the Medicaid quality assessment on nursing facilities in the annual budget to fund the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman in the Department of Aging.

The 3% funding allocation must supplement, not replace, existing appropriations for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman office.

The quality assessment applies to freestanding nursing facilities with 45 or more beds operating in Maryland, excluding nursing home beds in registered continuing care retirement communities.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman investigates complaints affecting nursing facility residents' health, safety, welfare, and rights, and represents resident interests before government agencies.

Effective date: July 1, 2026.