Relating to regulating private alternative adolescent residential or outdoor programs

HB 3445 would require private residential programs providing care for adolescents with emotional, behavioral, or learning challenges to obtain a state license from the Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification. It directly affects these programs and their staff, mandating background checks for all personnel with direct contact with youth, banning physical discipline as punishment, and requiring immediate reporting of any medical/chemical restraints. The bill establishes new safety standards, including suicide prevention policies, complaint procedures, and public posting of complaint information. Currently pending in the House Health and Human Resources Committee after introduction on March 17, 2025, it has not yet been voted on.