Bill Summary: Raised Bill No. 5208

• Allows nursing home residents to install electronic monitoring devices (cameras or audio recorders) in their private rooms or living units at their own expense, effective October 1, 2020.

• Requires written consent from the resident, any roommate, or a resident representative (guardian, health care representative, or designated person) before installation, with the consent form filed at least 14 days in advance.

• Mandates consent forms include device type, conditions or restrictions (such as prohibiting audio recording, blocking video during medical exams or bathing, or disabling during visits with attorneys, ombudsmen, or spiritual advisors), and a waiver of nursing home liability for privacy breaches unless caused by unauthorized staff use.

• Permits immediate installation without prior notification to the facility in cases where residents fear retaliation, the facility failed to respond within two business days to written concerns, or prior safety reports were submitted to the ombudsman or police.

• Allows electronic monitoring recordings to be admitted as evidence in civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings, but protects consent forms and recordings from public records disclosure under Connecticut law.