NY A07465

Requires the independent developmental disability ombudsperson program to establish a service delivery structure including a toll-free telephone hotline, interactive website, and in-person, telephone, and email access to program staff or volunteers

Expands program duties to include assisting individuals with navigating paperwork and documentation to access developmental disability services and care coordination

Authorizes the program to assist individuals in filing and preparing appeals, and to represent individuals in hearings concerning adverse benefit determinations

Mandates the program to collect, track, and quantify problems and inquiries encountered by individuals, and to educate individuals on their rights and responsibilities

Restricts program funding eligibility to domestic not-for-profit corporations, excluding entities that currently receive OPWDD funding, operate care coordination organizations, or bill Medicaid for services

Takes effect 180 days after becoming law and applies to all policies and contracts issued, renewed, modified, altered, or amended after that date