Office of the Lanterman Ombudsperson.

Senator Menjivar's proposal to establish an Office of the Lanterman Ombudsperson within California's Department of Developmental Services aims to create an autonomous entity focused on resolving care and service issues for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The office would provide a dedicated channel for addressing complaints about developmental services while maintaining independence from departmental oversight.

The legislation outlines core responsibilities for the new office, including investigating complaints, providing technical assistance, and disseminating information about disability rights to consumers, families, and service providers. The Lanterman Ombudsperson, appointed by the department director in consultation with advocacy organizations, would serve four-year terms and oversee complaint investigations with broad access to relevant facilities and records.

The bill includes specific confidentiality protections, prohibiting the ombudsperson and staff from being compelled to testify or disclose records in legal proceedings. These provisions require a two-thirds legislative vote due to their impact on evidence admissibility. The office would also assume oversight of the existing Self-Determination Program Ombudsperson while maintaining that program's operational autonomy.

Implementation requirements include establishing a toll-free hotline, developing standardized rights information in consultation with stakeholders, and producing annual reports on complaint patterns and recommendations. Regional centers would need to inform consumers about the office during annual planning meetings and cooperate with investigations.