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FLORIDA - A Florida House subcommittee has approved a bill that would require nursing homes and assisted living facilities to permit electronic monitoring devices in residents' rooms.
The proposed legislation, House Bill 223, introduced by Rep. Susan Plasencia, R-Orlando, aims to enhance the safety of elderly residents, including those with Alzheimer's disease, by allowing the installation of video cameras and audio recording devices in their personal spaces.
Supporters argue that such measures are essential for safeguarding against abuse and neglect.
However, the bill has faced opposition from industry groups representing nursing homes and assisted living facilities, sparking a debate over privacy and protection for vulnerable seniors.
Key provisions of the bill include:
- Residents wishing to install monitoring devices must obtain consent from any roommates or their representatives. Roommates have the right to revoke consent or impose conditions on the use of such devices.
To protect privacy, access to the recorded video or audio would be limited to the residents themselves, their authorized representatives, law enforcement officers, and individuals granted permission by the residents or their representatives.
The bill explicitly forbids making the recorded content available on the internet.
A House staff analysis indicates that 19 states have laws permitting electronic monitoring devices in nursing home rooms, with 17 extending such laws to assisted living facilities.
Proponents believe that implementing similar measures in Florida could deter potential abuse and provide families with peace of mind.
Despite these arguments, some facility operators advocate for autonomy in deciding their policies regarding monitoring devices.
The bill is slated for consideration in the legislative session beginning March 4th.
A companion bill, Senate Bill 64, has also been filed by Sen. Ileana Garcia, R-Miami.