SB 1542 Summary

• Establish the Office of the Health and Human Services Ombudsman by January 1, 2017, with a phased transition of oversight and investigatory responsibilities from all Health and Human Services agencies to the Office.

• Designate the Ombudsman as the single entity responsible for handling complaints against Health and Human Services agencies, serving as a referral source, and conducting independent investigations into claims of fraud, waste, or abuse.

• Require the Governor to appoint the Ombudsman with Senate advice and consent, with appointment subject to Senate confirmation within 30 days or by the next legislative session.

• Authorize the Ombudsman to appoint and compensate employees (subject to Secretary approval) and deliver an annual independent report of investigations and findings to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Speaker of the House, and Governor.

• Effective date: November 1, 2016.