The Board of Housing and Community Development shall promulgate regulations by October 1, 1990, in accordance with the Administrative Process Act, Chapter 40 (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) of Title 2.2, establishing standards for fire suppression systems in nursing facilities and nursing homes, regardless of when such facilities or institutions were constructed. In the development of these standards, the Board shall seek input from relevant state agencies.
Units consisting of certified long-term care beds described in this section and § 32.1-126.2 located on the ground floor of general hospitals shall be exempt from the requirements of this section.