Bill > H759

This bill addresses monitoring devices in long-term care facilities by establishing new regulations that allow residents or their representatives to place two-way cameras in private, single-occupancy rooms to monitor care and living arrangements. The bill permits residents, their family members, or health care proxies to install monitoring devices, with specific conditions: the device must only monitor the resident's private room and cannot capture other residents' spaces. If a resident lacks the mental capacity to consent and has not objected, their health care proxy can provide consent. The facility must be notified before device installation, and conspicuous signage must indicate the room is being monitored. Employees and contractors must be informed about the monitoring device, and all installation and maintenance costs are to be paid by the person installing the device. Recordings can only be used for specific purposes such as filing complaints, as evidence in legal proceedings, or as required by law. The department responsible for elder affairs is required to develop regulations, including privacy and notification standards, and create a standard notification form for facilities. This bill aims to enhance transparency and provide families with a means to monitor the care of their loved ones in long-term care settings.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H759