SB 587 Summary

• Authorizes noncompulsory electronic monitoring of nursing facility resident rooms through video cameras and audio devices with written consent of the resident or their representative.

• Requires nursing facilities to provide written notice that electronic monitoring is voluntary and not compulsory, and prohibits facilities from refusing admission or removing residents based on their use of monitoring devices.

• Mandates nursing facilities post signs at entrances stating that electronic monitoring and audio devices may be in use; prohibits tampering with devices and establishes penalties under Oklahoma Statutes Title 21, Section 1993.

• Requires roommates' written consent before monitoring devices are installed in shared rooms, with option to condition consent on camera positioning or audio device restrictions; facilities must accommodate room changes if consent is refused.

• Establishes effective date of November 1, 2013, with residents using existing devices prior to that date required to comply with consent provisions by January 1, 2014; State Department of Health must prescribe consent forms by November 1, 2013.