The proposed bill seeks to significantly reform the regulatory framework governing hospitals and home health agencies in Idaho by repealing several sections of the Idaho Code related to hospital licenses and inspections, specifically Sections 39-1301 through 39-1314 and Chapter 24, Title 39. In their place, the bill introduces new sections that define key terms, establish a streamlined licensing process, and outline conditions for license denial or revocation, with a focus on compliance with Medicare and Medicaid standards. It clarifies that certain facilities, such as Medicare-certified hospice agencies and home health agencies, are exempt from licensing under this chapter. Additionally, the bill imposes penalties for operating without a license, including misdemeanor charges, fines, or imprisonment, and grants the Department of Health and Welfare the authority to seek injunctions against unlicensed operations.

Moreover, the bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to update definitions and requirements related to residential care and assisted living facilities, including a change from "level of care identified under section 39-1301(b)" to "care of a nursing facility." It emphasizes the need for individualized assessments and comprehensive care plans for residents, mandates sufficient trained personnel, and limits certified family homes to a maximum of two residents. The bill also introduces definitions related to the protection of vulnerable adults, clarifying caregiver roles and outlining forms of abuse. Notably, it amends Section 54-3215 to exempt certain facility employees from specific regulations and updates definitions in Section 56-101 to align with current practices. Additionally, the bill nullifies existing rules from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare regarding various healthcare facilities, effective July 1, 2025, marking a significant shift in regulatory oversight.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 39-1301, 39-1301A, 39-1301B, 39-1302, 39-1303, 39-1304, 39-1305, 39-1306, 39-1307, 39-1307A, 39-1307B, 39-1308, 39-1312, 39-1313, 39-1314, 39-1309, 39-1310, 39-1301C, 39-1392, 39-3301, 39-3322, 39-3501, 39-3505, 39-5302, 54-3215, 56-101, 56-1402, 56-1602, 56-1703, 63-701