This bill aims to enhance the rights of hospital patients with developmental disabilities by allowing them to be accompanied by a designated family member, guardian, direct support professional, or other caregiver throughout their hospital stay. The bill specifies that this right is applicable except during surgical procedures where the presence of the designated person may pose a risk to the patient. Upon admission, hospitals are required to provide the patient or their parent/guardian with the opportunity to make this designation, and if the patient is incapacitated, the parent or guardian can make the designation on their behalf.

Additionally, the bill mandates that hospitals document the designation in the patient's medical record and allows for changes to the designation with prior notice. It clarifies that the designated individual is not obligated to provide direct support or personal care during the hospital stay or after discharge. The bill also emphasizes that making a designation is not mandatory for the patient or their guardian. Overall, this legislation seeks to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities have the necessary support during their hospital experiences.