Rhode Island's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program protects the rights and safety of over 13,600 residents of nursing facilities, assisted living residences, the Bristol Veterans' Home, and Eleanor Slater Hospital. It is the only independent voice dedicated solely to advocating for people living in these facilities.

Complaints to the Ombudsman have tripled in just two years, from 597 in 2023 to 1,787 in 2025, with nearly a third involving abuse, gross neglect, or exploitation. At the same time, the state appropriation has not increased in 15 years.

SB 2104 (Sen. Tikoian) and HR 7059 (Rep. Slater) would appropriate $100,000 to strengthen the Ombudsman Program so it can continue to investigate complaints, protect resident rights, and hold facilities accountable.

Please let your state Senator and Representative know this is important to you, and ask them to help pass this important bill this session!

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