SCS/HB 603 - This act promotes Alzheimer's Awareness and modifies the duties of the Division of Aging.

A new section 9.160 designates the second Tuesday in March as "Alzheimer's Awareness Day" to increase the awareness of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

The Department of Health and Senior Services is created by Section 192.002. All authority, powers and duties of the Division of Aging will transfer to the Department of Health and Senior Services under Section 660.060.

Currently, Section 660.050, RSMo, outlines the duties of the Division of Aging. This act transfers its duties to the Department of Health and Senior Services. New language also requires the Division to provide current information and technical assistance to the elderly and to persons with Alzheimer's or related dementia. Information should include dementia-specific training materials and trainers and should be developed with the aid of experts in dementia care. New language requires the Division and the Department of Health to establish minimum requirements for dementia-specific employee training, by January 1, 2002. The training will be incorporated into new employee orientation and in-services. It should include an overview of the disease, methods of communicating with persons with dementia, and more specific training for employees who provide direct care to such persons. The term "employee" includes independent contractors.

The State Board of Senior Services is created in section 660.062 and will consist of seven members. No more than four members may be from the same political party. Each member will serve a four-year term, after the first appointees, with a two- year term limit. Certain members must specialize in gerontology, geriatrics, nutrition, rehabilitation, and mental health.

Portions of this act are substantially similar to SB 225 and SB 449 (2001).
ERIN MOTLEY