Exempts Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program representatives from reporting vulnerable adult maltreatment unless they witness the abuse.

The bill amends South Carolina law to exempt representatives of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program from reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults unless they personally witness the incident. In such cases, the ombudsman or their representative must seek informed consent from the resident to disclose identifying information, following federal procedures. This change aims to balance the need for protection with respect for federal privacy requirements.

Exempts Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program representatives from reporting vulnerable adult maltreatment unless they witness the abuse.

The bill amends South Carolina law to exempt representatives of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program from reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults unless they personally witness the incident. In such cases, the ombudsman or their representative must seek informed consent from the resident to disclose identifying information, following federal procedures. This change aims to balance the need for protection with respect for federal privacy requirements.