§ 35A-16-1001 — Homeless services provider ombudsman -- Definitions -- Creation -- Appointment -- Qualifications.

(1) As used in this part:
(1)(a) "Client" means the same at that term is defined in Section 35A-16-102.
(1)(b) "Complainant" means a person who initiates a complaint with the ombudsman.
(1)(c) "Complaint" means a complaint regarding an act or omission by a service provider with respect to a particular client.
(1)(d) "Office" means the Office of Homeless Services described in Chapter 16, Part 2, Office of Homeless Services.
(1)(e) "Ombudsman" means the homeless services provider ombudsman appointed under this section.
(1)(f) "Service provider" means the same as that term is defined in Section 35A-16-102.
(2) (2)(a) There is created within the office the position of homeless services provider ombudsman to investigate complaints made against service providers by or on behalf of individuals experiencing homelessness.
(2)(b) The executive director of the department shall:
(2)(b)(i) appoint an ombudsman who has:
(2)(b)(i)(A) recognized executive and administrative capacity; and
(2)(b)(i)(B) experience in human welfare, and in state laws and policies governing vulnerable populations; and
(2)(b)(ii) select the ombudsman solely with regard to qualifications and fitness to discharge the duties of the ombudsman.
(2)(c) The ombudsman shall:
(2)(c)(i) serve at the pleasure of the executive director of the department; and
(2)(c)(ii) devote full-time to the duties described in this part.

Legislative History

Enacted by Chapter 422, 2025 General Session