Substitute House Bill No. 7156, also known as Public Act No. 25-79, implements significant revisions to the statutes governing developmental services, particularly concerning the administration of medication and the management of abuse and neglect cases. The bill clarifies that the term "administration" in section 20-14h excludes the administration of epinephrine or insulin via auto-injector for individuals in facilities licensed by the Department of Developmental Services. It also allows trained personnel to administer medication in various settings, including licensed facilities, using auto-injectors for specific medical conditions. Additionally, new definitions such as "community companion home licensee" and "community companion home designee" are introduced in section 17a-247a, which delineate the roles of individuals providing residential support.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a registry for individuals with a history of substantiated abuse or neglect, including former employees and community companion home licensees. It outlines the information to be included in the registry and specifies who can access it, such as authorized agencies and employers. Employers are required to report any substantiated abuse or neglect within five business days, and a process for hearings is established before a name can be added to the registry. The bill also updates various sections of the general statutes, including the notification process for parents or guardians regarding the Department's access to records, and replaces references to "behavioral services" with "children's services." Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and the safety of individuals receiving developmental services.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 20-14i
PH Joint Favorable Substitute: 20-14i
File No. 323: 20-14i
Public Act No. 25-79: 20-14i