NJ A2471

Long-term care facilities must allow residents to designate at least two "essential caregivers" who can visit in person during declared emergencies, outbreaks, epidemics, or pandemics of infectious diseases.

Essential caregivers can include family members, friends, guardians, religious advisors, or any other person chosen by the resident or their legal representative, with no eligibility requirements for designation.

Facilities must post information on their websites and provide written notice to residents about their rights to designate essential caregivers, the designation process, and any associated requirements.

Infection control protocols imposed on essential caregivers cannot be stricter than those applied to facility employees, and visitation rights cannot be revoked unless the caregiver violates the facility's visitation policies.

The bill takes effect 90 days after enactment and requires the Department of Health to enforce compliance and adopt implementing regulations.