A. The Department of Medical Assistance Services, as administrator of the state Medicaid program, maintains a fund comprised of civil money penalties received from nursing facilities as a result of enforcement of federal survey requirements. Pursuant to federal regulations, such funds shall be used for the protection of the health or property of certified nursing facility residents.
B. In addition to the remedies specified in subsection A, the Director shall establish a Nursing Facility Quality Improvement Program in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations designed to improve the health, safety, and welfare of residents in nursing facilities. The Director shall develop the Nursing Facility Quality Improvement Program in cooperation with affected state agencies, representatives of the nursing facility provider community, and advocacy groups.