Section 270.156  Retaliation

a)         It is unlawful to intentionally discriminate, retaliate or effect reprisals in any manner against any resident, participant, representative or employee of a long-term care facility, or a home care provider, for filing a complaint with, providing information to, or otherwise cooperating in good faith with the Ombudsman. 

b)         The Office shall investigate any report of intentional acts of discrimination, retaliation or reprisal.

c)         If the Office, based on a review by the Office, determines that enforcement action is warranted, the Office shall pursue the following course of action:

1)         The State Ombudsman shall notify the Office of the Attorney General or the appropriate State's Attorney.

2)         When the perpetrator is a long-term care facility employee or agent, the Office shall file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health or the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, as appropriate.

3)         When the perpetrator is a provider employee or agent, the Office shall file a complaint with the appropriate entity with jurisdiction.

(Source:  Added at 43 Ill. Reg. 980, effective January 1, 2019)