HB 1134 Summary

• Updates North Dakota Century Code to use person-first language throughout statutes regarding individuals with developmental disabilities, replacing outdated terminology.

• Expands rights protections for individuals with developmental disabilities including communication, personal property, labor/wages, and refusal of services across all service settings (institutions, facilities, and individualized settings).

• Requires restrictions on individual rights to be documented in person-centered service plans, reviewed annually, and removed at the earliest point when individuals demonstrate ability to mitigate the need for restrictions.

• Prohibits seclusion in licensed facilities and requires physical restraints to comply with person-centered service plans or emergency policies; limits unlicensed facility seclusion to 24 hours with administrator approval.

• Clarifies that the Department of Human Services may inspect facilities to ensure quality care and treatment standards are met.