ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Fifty-fifth Legislature

First Regular Session

Senate: 9-0-1-0 | 3rd Read 23-7-0-0

House: HHS W/D | APPROP DP 12-1-0-0

SB 1319: appropriation; agencies on aging; ombudsman.

Sponsor:  Senator Alston, LD 24

Caucus & COW

Overview

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the state General Fund (GF) in FY 2022 to the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) to distribute to area agencies on aging (AAAs) for ombudsman services.

History

DES, in conjunction with other state and local government agencies and community organizations and agencies, is required to identify services provided by state departments and agencies that are appropriate for implementing the goal of enabling older Arizonans to maintain the most independence and freedom, avoid institutional care and live in dignity (A.R.S. § 46-192).

According to DES, AAAs are public or nonprofit private agencies that help older Arizonans. AAAs are chosen by the State to plan and coordinate services at the local level, advocate for older adults and offer information on programs, options and community supports.

The Older Americans Act (Act) of 1965 established authority for grants to states for community planning and social services, research and development projects, and personnel training in the field of aging. The Act also established the Administration on Aging to administer the newly created grant programs and to serve as the federal focal point on matters concerning older people.

States may receive federal monies under the Act to establish and operate an Office of a State Long-Term Care Ombudsman (LTCOP) (U.S.C. 42-3058g). Arizona's LTCOP Program's primary purpose is to identify, investigate and resolve complaints made by or on behalf of residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult foster care homes. Arizona residents can contact their local LTCOP Program through eight AAAs (DES).

Provisions

1.   Appropriates $1,000,000 from the state GF in FY 2022 to DES to distribute to area agencies AAAs for ombudsman services. (Sec. 1)

2.   ☐ Prop 105 (45 votes) ☐ Prop 108 (40 votes) ☐ Emergency (40 votes) ☐ Fiscal NoteExempts the appropriation from lapsing. (Sec. 1)

3.   States the Legislature intends the appropriation be considered ongoing funding in future years. (Sec. 1)

                                                             

 

 

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                                                                        SB 1319

Initials TG/IR                                         Page 0          Caucus & COW

 

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