Section 449A.NEW - [Newly enacted section not yet numbered] [Assistance to resident of residential facility before discharge]1. Before discharging a resident, a residential facility for groups shall offer assistance to the resident and any representative of the resident concerning the discharge and relocation of the resident. Such assistance must include, without limitation, information on available alternative placements.2. Except in an emergency, a residential facility for groups shall involve a resident and his or her representative, if applicable, in planning the relocation of the resident and allow the resident or his or her representative to choose among the available alternative placements. Any emergency placement must be temporary and must terminate when the resident or his or her representative is able to offer input on the final decision concerning the placement of the resident. A residential facility for groups shall not require a resident to remain in a temporary or permanent placement.3. In nonemergency situations, and where possible in an emergency, a residential facility for groups that transfers or discharges a resident shall, in consultation with the resident and his or her representative, if applicable, design and implement a transition plan in advance of the transfer or discharge.4. A residential facility for groups is not in violation of this section or subject to disciplinary action if: (a) A resident returns to the facility after an emergency transfer or discharge; and(b) The emergency transfer or discharge was necessary to address health care needs of the resident which are outside the scope of care that the facility is legally authorized to provide.Added by 2023, Ch. 145,§12, eff. 1/1/2024.