AN ACT to create and enact three new sections to chapter 25-16 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to residential care and services for the developmentally disabled; to amend and reenact sections 25-16-01, 25-16-02, 25-16-03, 25-16-03.1, 25-16-04, 25-16-05, 25-16-06, 25-16-07, 25-16-08, 25-16-09, 25-16-12, 25-16-13, 25-16-14, 25-16.1-01, 25-16.1-02, 25-16.1-03, and 25-16.1-04 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to developmental disability, residential care and services for the developmentally disabled, and receivers for developmentally disabled facilities; to repeal chapter 25-18 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to fee for service ratesetting for developmentally disabled facilities; and to declare an emergency.

Added new definition for 'host home' to cover family-based residential settings serving up to two individuals with developmental disabilities requiring intensive care.

Modified 'provider agency' definition to clarify that it applies to entities licensed by the department to provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Updated licensing requirements to ensure proper oversight of both traditional treatment centers and newly defined host homes and provider agencies.

Clarified that criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify individuals from licensure unless the offense directly impacts their ability to serve the public or rehabilitation is insufficient.

Added emergency declaration provision to allow immediate implementation of the new regulations.