permitting the commissioner of health and human services to authorize additional beds for a pediatric intermediate care facility under certain circumstances.

SB 18 allows existing pediatric intermediate care facilities (established before the law's effective date) to temporarily add up to 2 beds beyond their licensed capacity, starting July 1, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2026. The commissioner of health and human services may assess facility needs and request additional beds from the fiscal committee of the legislature if necessary. If approved, the commissioner can increase a facility’s licensed bed count through formal committee approval. This directly affects pediatric facilities serving children in intermediate care, providing temporary flexibility while requiring legislative oversight for permanent capacity changes.