SF359 Summary

• Extends the deadline for issuing new adult foster care licenses with five-bed capacity from June 30, 2017 to June 30, 2019, allowing existing five-bed facilities to continue operating if they meet specified requirements including physical environment standards, informed resident consent, and pre-March 1, 2011 licensing date.

• Modifies child foster care background study requirements by exempting short-term substitute caregivers providing less than 72 hours of continuous care from background checks and clarifying that county or private agencies collect information when the applicant or license holder resides in the home.

• Adds "individualized home supports" as a covered service under home and community-based services waivers and includes it in the rate-setting framework for calculating service payment rates under multiple waiver programs.

• Expands home and community-based services requirements by requiring technology discussion in 45-day planning meetings, emphasizing person-centered service planning, and allowing services provided in non-disability-specific settings as an option in assessment and case management processes.

• Modifies staff orientation requirements to focus on competency-based training rather than specific hour requirements and allows alternative training sources to count toward orientation hours if completed within 12 months before hire.