The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6972 seeks to enhance the regulations governing transfers and discharges in residential care homes. Key amendments include the requirement that facilities permit each resident to remain in the facility, and not transfer or discharge a resident from the facility unless certain conditions are met, such as the inability to meet the resident's welfare or significant health improvements. The bill mandates that in cases of involuntary transfers or discharges, facilities must provide written notice to the resident and their legally liable relative or guardian at least thirty days in advance, outlining the reasons, effective date, and the resident's rights to appeal. Additionally, the bill stipulates that facilities must assist residents in finding alternative accommodations and develop a discharge plan tailored to individual needs. It establishes a ten-day window for appealing a transfer or discharge, with any involuntary actions being paused until a final decision is made by the Commissioner of Public Health. In emergency situations, facilities can request immediate transfers, which will be assessed by the commissioner within seven days. The bill also introduces new reporting requirements for involuntary transfers or discharges, which must be submitted electronically to the State Ombudsman, and removes the previous six-month reporting deadline, with the new provisions set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

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