The proposed bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section that explicitly prohibits assisted living facilities and nursing care institutions from restricting the use of electronic monitoring devices in residents' private living spaces. Specifically, it would prevent these facilities from prohibiting current or potential residents from installing and using such devices, as well as from discriminating or retaliating against residents based on their decision to conduct electronic monitoring. The bill also allows the Department of Health Services to impose civil penalties on facilities that violate these provisions.

Additionally, the bill introduces definitions for key terms such as "electronic monitoring," which refers to the use of devices that record or transmit sounds or activity in a resident's room, and "electronic monitoring device," which encompasses any technology that captures or broadcasts audio or video. It also defines "resident" as individuals residing in these facilities whose services are funded, in whole or in part, by public monies. These updates aim to enhance the rights of residents in assisted living and nursing care settings regarding their privacy and monitoring preferences.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-420.06
House Engrossed Version: 36-420.06