1.    An assisted living facility that possessed a valid license issued by the department before August 1, 2005, may not be subsequently denied a license by the department merely due to failure to meet the requirements of sections 23-09-01, 50-32-01, and 50-32-02 provided that the assisted living facility meets all other licensing requirements.

2.    If there is a change in ownership of an assisted living facility that possessed a valid license issued before August 1, 2005, the department shall allow a continuance of the exception to the licensure requirements under subsection 1 for the new owner. The continuance provided under this subsection applies to the first change in ownership after July 31, 2005, and does not apply to any subsequent change in ownership.