ID S1353

Creates Chapter 97 in Title 39, Idaho Code to establish essential caregiver visitation rights at health care facilities and assistance settings.

Guarantees patients and residents the right to visitation by an essential caregiver (person designated by the patient or resident) even if other visitors are excluded by the facility.

Allows facilities to impose reasonable safety and operational protocols on essential caregivers and restrict where and when visits occur, provided restrictions do not interfere with the general right to visitation.

Requires facilities to notify potential patients or residents of their right to designate an essential caregiver prior to admission and provide opportunities for designation and accommodation of visits.

Becomes effective July 1, 2022 with an emergency declaration.