This bill mandates that telecommunications, cable television, and Internet service providers in New Jersey allow service recipients to terminate their service contracts without incurring early termination fees if they receive a physician's referral to relocate to a long-term care facility for at least 90 days. The service recipient must provide at least 45 days' notice for the termination, unless a physician's order necessitates immediate relocation, in which case the notice requirement is waived, allowing termination within 48 hours. The bill also stipulates that service providers must offer a standard termination form for this process and may require written proof of the service recipient's relocation.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that service recipients remain responsible for returning any equipment to the service provider and for any charges related to unreturned equipment or purchased items. It also outlines the process for representatives acting on behalf of service recipients, requiring them to submit the standard termination form along with documentation verifying their authority. Overall, the legislation aims to provide a smoother transition for individuals moving to long-term care facilities while ensuring that service providers have the necessary documentation to process contract terminations.