ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Phoenix, Arizona
appropriations; long-term
care ombudsman
Appropriates $500,000 in FY 2001-2002 and FY 2002-2003 from the state general fund to the office of the long-term care ombudsman for distribution to the area agencies on aging.
Background
In 1976, the long-term care ombudsman program was established as a requirement of the Older American Act. The purpose of the long-term care ombudsman program is to educate residents about legal rights and maintenance of their dignity and personal freedom. Additionally, the long-term care ombudsman program identifies problems and concerns of older persons receiving long-term care services and recommends changes in the long-term care system.
The Department of Economic Security (DES) contracts with eight regional area agencies on aging to provide long-term care ombudsman services. The regional area agencies on aging have approximately 12 full time ombudsmen and numerous volunteers. According to the region one area agency on aging, the appropriation in S.B. 1298 enables the agencies to increase the number of full time ombudsmen and volunteer training.
The Joint Legislative Budget Committee’s proposed budget recommends a state general fund appropriation of $359,500 in both FY 2001-2002 and FY 2002-2003 to the long-term care ombudsman program in order to maintain current levels of service. S.B. 1503 appropriates $500,000 from the state general fund in FY 2001-2002 and FY 2002-2003 to the office of the long-term care ombudsman for distribution to the area agencies on aging to increase levels of service.
Provisions
1. Appropriates $500,000 in FY 2001-2002 and FY 2002-2003 from the state general fund to the office of the long-term care ombudsman for distribution to the area agencies on aging. Exempts the appropriations from lapsing.
2. Provides for a general effective date.
Prepared by Senate Staff
March 8, 2001