1. (a)

   1. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Department shall ensure that a pediatric hospital overstay patient is transferred to and treated in the least restrictive setting when clinically indicated and when possible.
   2. (2) The Department of Human Services, in coordination with the Department, shall ensure that a pediatric hospital overstay patient who is a child committed to the care and custody of the Department of Human Services is transferred to and treated in the least restrictive setting when clinically indicated and when possible.
2. (b) If a pediatric hospital overstay patient remains in the hospital for more than 48 hours and the registry established under § 7.5-802 of this article indicates that an appropriate inpatient bed is available, the hospital shall seek the transfer to maintain the clinical stability of the patient.
3. (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, to ensure that a pediatric hospital overstay patient is treated in the least restrictive setting, a hospital may concurrently explore in-State and out-of-state placement options.

Added by Acts 2025, c. 479, § 1, eff. July 1, 2025; Acts 2025, c. 480, § 1, eff. July 1, 2025.