Bill > HB1559

This bill aims to improve the placement and care of children in out-of-home settings and those experiencing prolonged hospital stays. It prohibits placing children in unlicensed settings, which are defined as locations not licensed by the state for child welfare and housing, and specifically excludes places like hotels, shelters, and office buildings, but includes semi-independent living arrangements. The bill also addresses pediatric hospital overstay patients, defined as individuals under 22 who remain in a hospital for over 48 hours after being medically cleared for discharge, by expanding the duties of pediatric hospital overstay coordinators to include immediate notification and coordination of placement efforts. Furthermore, it establishes the Child and Youth Placement Review Panel within the Governor's Office for Children, headed by the Senior Advisor for Children and Families, to analyze instances of children in unlicensed settings or experiencing pediatric overstays and propose systemic improvements. An Advisory Council on Maryland's System of Care for Children, Youth, and Families is also established to review laws, recommend improvements, and identify funding opportunities to enhance the care system for children and families.