AB 2549 would establish the Patients’ Visitation Rights Act, which makes legislative findings regarding the benefits and value of hospital visitation, and requires a health facility, as defined, to allow specified persons to visit, including children and grandparents. Requires health facilities to develop alternate visitation protocols if circumstances require restricted visitor access that allow visitation to the greatest extent possible, while maintaining patient, visitor, and staff health and safety. Prohibits a health facility from limiting in-person visitation in end-of-life situations unless the patient has indicated that they do not want a visitor.
“AB 2549 codifies the essential rights of patients and their families by clarifying visitation protocols, thus ensuring standardization and preparation for future public health events.” – Assemblyman James Gallagher
