This bill amends the Public Health Code to establish regulations for electronic monitoring in nursing homes, defining key terms such as "electronic monitoring" and "electronic monitoring device." It requires nursing homes to permit residents or their representatives to install monitoring devices upon a written request using a specified notification and consent form. Consent from any roommate is also necessary before monitoring can take place. The bill outlines the responsibilities of both residents and nursing homes regarding the costs and installation of these devices, while ensuring that residents cannot be denied admission or face retaliation for requesting electronic monitoring. Additionally, it mandates clear signage to inform visitors about the possibility of monitoring and specifies that recordings belong to the resident, with guidelines for their handling in cases of suspected abuse or neglect.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for the long-term care ombudsman program, allowing it to loan electronic monitoring devices to eligible residents for 30 days, with the option for extension. It requires that a contract be signed detailing the rights and obligations of both parties involved in the loan. The bill also assigns responsibilities to the department for creating rules related to the electronic monitoring process, including consent procedures and installation guidelines. It emphasizes the need for nursing homes to make reasonable accommodations for the use of these devices and outlines the process for withdrawing consent. The long-term care ombudsman program is given the authority to mediate disputes between residents and nursing homes, and the legislation will take effect 180 days after enactment.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.21702, 333.21703