The bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the rights of residents in health care facilities, introducing definitions for terms such as "technology device," "virtual monitoring," and "virtual visitation." It emphasizes residents' rights to private communications, participation in community activities, and management of their financial affairs. Facilities are required to provide a clear statement of residents' rights upon admission and communicate these rights annually. Additional provisions protect residents from retaliation when filing complaints, require notification of changes in rights or regulations, and establish a grievance process. The bill also mandates that residents be informed of the reasons for any involuntary transfers or discharges, reinforcing their right to privacy in treatment and personal needs.

Furthermore, the bill regulates the use of authorized electronic monitoring devices in residents' rooms, ensuring compliance with privacy laws. Residents may use their chosen devices for virtual monitoring at their own expense, with specific conditions such as written notice to the facility and consent from all residents in shared rooms. The bill includes measures to prevent retaliation against residents who authorize monitoring, mandates clear signage regarding monitoring activities, and establishes penalties for tampering with or unlawfully accessing recordings. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen the autonomy and dignity of residents while ensuring their rights are upheld and protected.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 50-10.2-01, 50-10.2-02, 50-10.2-02.1, 50-10.2-05
Adopted by the Senate Human Services Committee: 50-10.2-01, 50-10.2-02, 50-10.2-02.1, 50-10.2-05
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 50-10.2-01, 50-10.2-02, 50-10.2-02.1, 50-10.2-05
Adopted by the House Human Services Committee: 50-10.2-01, 50-10.2-02, 50-10.2-02.1
Enrollment: 50-10.2-01, 50-10.2-02, 50-10.2-02.1
PREFILED: 43-23-06.1, 43-23-08, 43-23-13.1, 43-23-24