The bill amends the Public Health Code to establish new provisions for electronic monitoring in nursing homes, defining key terms such as "electronic monitoring" and "electronic monitoring device." It requires nursing homes to permit residents to install electronic monitoring devices upon written request using a specified notification and consent form. The bill mandates that consent for such monitoring be documented and includes guidelines for obtaining consent from roommates. Additionally, it requires nursing homes to provide signage informing visitors about electronic monitoring, prohibits denial of admission based on requests for monitoring, and clarifies that recordings from these devices can be used in legal proceedings under certain conditions. The bill emphasizes that residents own the recordings and outlines the responsibilities of nursing homes regarding the installation and maintenance of these devices.

Moreover, the bill addresses the use of electronic monitoring devices in cases of suspected abuse or neglect, requiring individuals in possession of relevant recordings to provide copies to the nursing home upon request, with costs covered by the nursing home. It also details the role of the long-term care ombudsman program in facilitating mediation and loaning electronic monitoring devices to eligible residents for a period of 30 days, with the option for extension. The bill mandates the creation of rules governing the loan process, including application procedures and training, and allows the department to establish additional regulations related to electronic monitoring. The act is set to take effect 180 days after being enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.21702, 333.21703