The proposed bill, HB2166, introduces a licensing requirement for behavioral-supported group homes in Arizona, effective July 1, 2024, through the Department of Health Services (DHS). This new legislation aims to ensure health and safety standards for homes serving individuals with dual disorders, such as psychiatric and developmental disabilities. Key provisions include the necessity for functional behavioral assessments for clients, the creation of integrated treatment plans, and specific qualifications for direct care staff and clinical professionals.
In contrast to current law, which lacks specific licensing requirements for these homes, HB2166 establishes comprehensive regulations and oversight. It mandates the Director of the Department of Economic Security (DES) to adopt rules regarding staff qualifications and treatment plan reviews while exempting DHS and DES from certain statutory rulemaking requirements for 18 months to aid in the implementation of these regulations. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the quality of care and safety in behavioral-supported group homes through structured licensing and enhanced oversight.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 36-401, 36-421, 36-424, 36-425.09, 36-551, 36-557, 36-405, 36-2939, 36-2907.06, 36-151, 3-365, 36-427, 36-431.01, 36-446.07, 8-501, 8-509, 36-593.01, 36-561, 36-694, 14-5312, 14-5312.01
House Engrossed Version: 36-132, 36-424, 36-551, 36-557, 36-591, 36-591.01, 36-693, 36-694, 39-122, 36-138, 36-136, 36-427, 36-431.01, 36-446.07, 8-501, 8-509, 36-593.01, 36-561, 14-5312, 14-5312.01, 36-401, 36-2943, 36-560, 36-2959
Chaptered Version: 36-132, 36-424, 36-551, 36-557, 36-591, 36-591.01, 36-693, 36-694, 39-122, 36-138, 36-136, 36-427, 36-431.01, 36-446.07, 8-501, 8-509, 36-593.01, 36-561, 14-5312, 14-5312.01, 36-401, 36-2943, 36-560, 36-2959