NJ A2259

Patients with developmental disabilities admitted to New Jersey hospitals have the right to be accompanied by a designated family member, guardian, direct support professional (DSP), or other caregiver during their stay.

Hospitals may temporarily limit or revoke a designated person's presence when necessary for patient safety, infection control, privacy, public health emergencies, or safe clinical care delivery.

Only one caregiver may be designated at a time, and the designation does not confer medical decision-making authority unless the person is already a legal guardian or health care representative.

Hospitals must record the caregiver designation in the patient's medical records and are not required to permit designated persons in behavioral health units or secure areas where their presence would conflict with safety or privacy requirements.

The Department of Health, in consultation with the Department of Human Services, will adopt implementing regulations, with the law taking effect 365 days after enactment.