Official Site of The State of New Jersey

For Immediate Release:
January 17, 2024

Ombudsman Voices Support for Legislation Designed to Help People Remain in Their Homes and Communities

Statement from Laurie Facciarossa Brewer, New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman, on legislation providing presumptive eligibility for home- and community-based services under Medicaid (bills A4049/S3495)—

“As New Jersey’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman, I am very encouraged that Gov. Murphy signed this legislation, and I hope it will be part of a multifaceted effort to reshape public policy to support individuals so they can remain in their homes and their communities. Presumptive eligibility enables us to fund home- and community-based services for people who appear to be eligible for Medicaid without having to wait through the lengthy approval process. This will allow early intervention to support people and avert the need for nursing home care. And the bonus? It saves money for the state and the taxpayer. We are empowered to do more good by spending less.”

About the New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman
The Office of the New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman is an independent state agency dedicated to the mission of advancing the rights, dignity, and self-determination of adults living in long-term care, including nursing homes, assisted living, and residential health care facilities. Learn more.

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