The bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the rights of residents in health care facilities by introducing new definitions for "technology device," "virtual monitoring," and "virtual visitation." It revises residents' rights to include receiving a comprehensive statement of their rights upon admission, the right to participate in community activities, manage personal finances, and be free from abuse and neglect. Facilities are required to adopt grievance processes and protect residents from retaliation for making complaints. Additionally, the bill mandates that facilities provide written notice of any changes in resident rights or regulations and ensure residents are informed about their financial affairs.

Furthermore, the bill establishes regulations for the use of authorized electronic monitoring devices in residents' rooms, ensuring compliance with privacy rights under state and federal law. Residents may use their chosen virtual monitoring devices at their own expense, with specific conditions such as obtaining consent from all residents in shared rooms and providing written notice to the facility. The bill also includes provisions to prevent retaliation against residents who authorize monitoring, mandates clear signage in monitoring areas, and imposes legal penalties for unauthorized tampering with devices. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen protections and rights for residents, emphasizing consent and privacy in the context of electronic monitoring.

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