The Council discussed the transition from a passive body to an advocacy-focused group, including the introduction of a new Command Center tool for member resources. Discussions covered state ombudsman reports on mileage reimbursement, unused Civil Money Penalty funds, and upcoming memory care rulemaking. The meeting also addressed a successful volunteer recruitment campaign, the potential establishment of a social media presence, and advocacy efforts regarding ALF ownership transparency and Medicaid-funded facility scrutiny. Additionally, the Council voted to support the federal Access Act and Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act as a linked package, reviewed district updates including new pilot programs for transfer and discharge notices, and discussed the recruitment of at-large members.
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The council appointed a new Vice Chair and welcomed new members. The State Ombudsman reported on legislative advocacy priorities, focusing on mileage reimbursement, volunteer retention, and shifting program emphasis. The Legislative Advocacy Workgroup secured approval for initiatives including mileage rate advocacy, ALF ownership transparency, a new State Council website, a streamlined sign-on process for partner organizations, and CMPRP reform. Additionally, the council discussed training developments, district data enhancements, and challenges regarding resident access to records. Further actions included aligning council terms with the fiscal year, seeking nominations for at-large positions, and the re-election of the State Council Chair.
Jan 22, 2026·Board meeting
State Council Open Session Minutes
The council meeting addressed several strategic priorities for the Ombudsman Program in 2026, with a primary focus on legislative advocacy and planned engagement at the Capitol. Discussions covered current staffing limitations, initiatives for volunteer recruitment and retention, and planning for an upcoming state conference. A legislative update highlighted key committees and an updated MOU with the Department of Children and Families. Detailed reports on district trends identified common challenges including staffing shortages in facilities, increased resident acuity, memory care complexity, and issues related to financial exploitation and additional fee structures. The council identified specific advocacy priorities, including the need for minimal staffing requirements and enhanced corporate accountability.
