This bill mandates the Assistant Commissioner of the Division of Developmental Disabilities in the Department of Human Services to create guidelines for the placement and transfer of individuals with developmental disabilities between Level 1 and Level 2 group homes. Level 1 group homes cater to individuals with minimal or periodic challenging behaviors, while Level 2 group homes are designated for those exhibiting persistent challenging behaviors that pose a risk of serious harm to themselves or others. The guidelines will consider the clinical and social needs of the individuals, the frequency of their challenging behaviors, and the potential risk to the health and safety of other residents.

Additionally, the bill specifies criteria for placement in both levels of group homes and outlines the necessary conditions for transitioning individuals between them. It emphasizes that Level 2 group homes must provide services aimed at supporting residents' reintegration into less-restrictive environments, such as Level 1 group homes. The Assistant Commissioner is also encouraged to align these new guidelines with existing ones from the Division of the Children's System of Care in the Department of Children and Families. The bill is inspired by the need to enhance safety for residents in group homes, particularly following incidents involving individuals with challenging behaviors.