DE SB221

Expands the range of relatives who can authorize elective surgery for persons receiving residential services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) by separating "adult aunt or uncle" into its own category and creating a separate provision for "adult niece or nephew."

Redefines "elective surgery" to include surgical, medical, or dental procedures for non-life threatening treatment or diagnosis, excluding sterilization procedures.

Clarifies that persons covered by this law are those receiving services specifically within the residential program of DDDS rather than using outdated terminology like "mental retardation" or "specific developmental disabilities."

Reduces the medical authorization requirement from 2 physicians or dentists to at least 1 physician or dentist who is not directly involved in providing care.

Extends the authorization scope to include diagnostic procedures in addition to surgical procedures for individuals receiving DDDS services.