This bill amends existing legislation to direct the Developmental Services Quality Council to provide leadership for the review and improvement of the quality of developmental disability and acquired brain disorder services in New Hampshire. The council is to be composed of a majority of individuals with disabilities or their parents, and includes representatives from various organizations and agencies. The bill specifies the duties of the council, which include reviewing information on service quality, making recommendations for improvement, and having access to all non-confidential quality-related information funded by public funds. The council is also tasked with making an annual report on its recommendations and the actions taken in response to previous recommendations.

The bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to respond to the council's recommendations within 30 business days, indicating agreement or disagreement. If the department agrees with a recommendation, it must provide a detailed plan for addressing the improvement areas, including specific steps and a timeline. If it disagrees, it must provide a rationale for its decision. The council is allowed to comment on rules, regulations, proposals, or other initiatives impacting service quality throughout the year, not just quarterly. The bill also outlines provisions for the council's meetings, including public access, quorum requirements, and accommodations for members with disabilities. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with an effective date of October 3, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 171-A:33
As Amended by the House: 171-A:33