The bill amends the Idaho Residential Care or Assisted Living Act to enhance definitions, operational standards, and resident rights within residential care facilities. Key changes include the introduction of terms such as "immediate jeopardy" and "non-core issue," along with revised definitions related to abuse and neglect. The bill establishes requirements for assessing residents' needs, developing service agreements, and clarifying the responsibilities of facility administrators. It mandates that facilities provide clear descriptions of services and costs to residents upon admission, and it modifies payment level rules, ensuring that regulations are subject to legislative approval. Additionally, it repeals provisions related to special waivers and introduces new sections on inspections and plans of correction to improve care quality and safety.

Further amendments focus on enhancing resident rights, including confidentiality, informed decision-making, and the right to voice grievances without fear of reprisal. Facilities must document the consequences of residents refusing medical services and inform them of their legal rights upon admission. The bill also establishes regulations for unlicensed facilities, asserting that they cannot operate without a license and modifying penalties for noncompliance. New sections detail the inspection process for licensed facilities, including self-inspection programs and complaint handling, while allowing for civil penalties to be assessed for deficiencies. Overall, the legislation aims to improve oversight, compliance, and the quality of care in Idaho's residential care and assisted living sector.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 39-3301, 39-3302, 39-3303, 39-3305, 39-3307, 39-3308, 39-3309, 39-3316, 39-3318, 39-3321, 39-3322, 39-3326, 39-3340, 39-3351, 39-3352, 39-3354A, 39-3356, 39-3357, 63-701