Bill > HF2422

This bill mandates new procedures for notifying residents and staff of nursing facilities, residential care facilities, and assisted living programs about the admission of individuals required to register as sex offenders, a requirement stemming from laws like the Sex Offender Registration Act (chapter 692A). Specifically, it requires facilities to check the sex offender registry before admitting new residents and to notify current residents, their emergency contacts, facility staff, visitors, and the local sheriff if a registered sex offender is admitted. Facilities must also develop a safety plan for such individuals, and the state department will establish rules for these notification and safety plan requirements, with violations potentially leading to civil penalties. Additionally, the bill clarifies that facilities are not obligated to admit individuals through court orders or referrals without the express approval of their administrator or owner, and it establishes a temporary program to ensure adequate placements for registered sex offenders being released from corrections or discharged from facilities, while also forming workgroups and committees to study long-term solutions for housing and caring for individuals with a history of sexual offenses.