The Senate Committee on Human Resources and Facilities was called to order by Chairman Raymond D. Rawson, at 3:20 p.m., on Friday, April 16, 1999, in Room 2135 of the Legislative Building, Carson City, Nevada. Exhibit A is the Agenda. Exhibit B is the Attendance Roster. All exhibits are available and on file at the Research Library of the Legislative Counsel Bureau.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT:

Senator Raymond D. Rawson, Chairman

Senator Maurice Washington, Vice Chairman

Senator Randolph J. Townsend

Senator Mark Amodei

Senator Bernice Mathews

Senator Michael Schneider

Senator Valerie Wiener

STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT:

Cynthia Cook, Committee Secretary

OTHERS PRESENT:

David Gamble, District Judge, Department 1, Ninth Judicial District, testified since 1991 he and his wife have operated City of Refuge. Located in Douglas County, the residential facility is for homeless females who have decided to keep their babies. Speaking in favor of A.B. 167, he stated current regulations require an administrator and compliance with many state rules applicable to institutions, in order to operate. The bill would exempt facilities of four or more females during pregnancy or after delivery from such statutes. In answer to Senator Mathews, Judge Gamble stated the clients are not exclusively juveniles, and are referred by organizations such as juvenile court and law enforcement agencies. The facility is supported by donations, and Medicaid usually covers the client’s obstetrical costs.

Chairman Rawson asked Judge Gamble if he agrees there must be some minimal form of regulation for such an enterprise. Judge Gamble said controls do exist through the juvenile court system, the hospital system, and the guardianship court.

Rick Panelli, Chief, Bureau of Licensure and Certification, Department of Human Resources, testified the bureau has never had a complaint against a facility licensed in the category Judge Gamble has depicted.

Chairman Rawson closed the hearing on A.B. 167.

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Chairman Rawson opened the hearing on A.B. 250

Mary Liveratti, Deputy Administrator, Aging Services Division, Department of Human Resources, stated A.B. 250 is requested by the department and is a technical change to existing law that will not alter the substance of the work performed by the elder rights attorney. The position provides legal advocacy for Nevada seniors, and is funded by federal monies. The specialist performs duties regarding legislation, legal services, development, elder abuse education and training, technical assistance, information and referral, among other duties. Current law lacks a statement of the duties that may be performed by the specialist. Nevada seniors who interact with the specialist often seek direct services, and the purpose of this bill is to clearly indicate that direct services are not provided.

In answer to inquiries by Senator Wiener and Senator Washington, Ms. Liveratti explained the advocacy specialist is responsible for two hotlines; one which provides information and referrals to seniors, and one for the reporting of the crime of elder abuse. The specialist does not offer direct legal counseling to providers, but does conduct education on elder abuse, and guidance to district attorneys regarding the crime.

Chairman Rawson closed the hearing on A.B. 250.

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Chairman Rawson adjourned the meeting at 3:35 p.m.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED:

Cynthia Cook,

Committee Secretary

APPROVED BY:

Senator Raymond D. Rawson, Chairman

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