AZ HB2394

Establishes a three-year developmental disabilities group home monitoring pilot program contracted through the entity designated to operate the state's protection and advocacy system for persons with developmental disabilities.

Requires the designated entity to conduct annual in-person monitoring of group homes, investigate complaints, conduct quarterly visits for higher-risk clients, provide rights information to clients, and submit quarterly and comprehensive reports to the Department of Economic Security.

Mandates the designated entity to immediately notify the Department of Economic Security if resident safety is at risk or staff refuses cooperation, and to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation to law enforcement or child/adult protective services.

Directs the Department of Economic Security and designated entity to develop a process identifying higher-risk clients based on factors including sole caregiver dependence, limited ability to communicate, destabilizing events, prior protective services referrals, and unsafe living environments.

Appropriates $1,200,000 from the state general fund for fiscal year 2022-2023 to the Department of Economic Security for the pilot program, with monies exempt from lapse provisions.