This final rule implements title VII, chapter 2, of the Older Americans Act, as amended, i.e., the Ombudsman Program. Since 1992, the functions of this program have been delineated in 42 U.S.C. 305g; however, regulations have not been promulgated for any title VII program. In the absence of regulatory guidance, there has been significant variation in the interpretation and implementation of these provisions among States. Recent inquires from States and an Administration on Aging compliance review in one State have highlighted the difficulty of determining State compliance in carrying out the program functions.