The bill S. 958 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 44-7-400, which defines terms related to the State Health Facility Licensure Act and establishes guidelines for the use of patient beds during justified emergencies. It allows for the placement of patient beds in hallways, corridors, and other means of egress during emergencies, as determined by the on-site emergency physician. The bill outlines specific criteria for what constitutes a "justified emergency," including declared states of emergency, natural disasters, and other significant incidents that exhaust available treatment space in hospitals.

Additionally, the bill mandates that hospitals must remove all patient beds from hallways and corridors when there is no justified emergency and maintain clear pathways in these areas at all times. Hospitals are required to document instances of justified emergencies and the use of patient beds in these spaces, submitting records to the Department of Public Health quarterly. Furthermore, hospitals must develop written safety protocols for emergency conditions and ensure that staff are familiar with these protocols to enhance safety for patients, staff, and visitors.

Statutes affected:
02/25/2026: 44-7-400
Latest Version: 44-7-400