WI AB491

Authorizes group homes, shelter care facilities, and residential care centers for children and youth to use video surveillance in common areas, entrances, and exits without child consent, provided the child and their parent, guardian, or custodian are informed

Requires all such facilities to adopt a safety monitoring policy, which may include video surveillance in common areas, entrances, and exits

Prohibits video surveillance from being used as a substitute for one-on-one monitoring of children at high risk for self-harm

Video recording data is confidential and not open to public inspection, though existing exceptions for child welfare records apply and DCF may review any recordings

Creates an exception to current law requiring patient consent for filming, allowing children in these facilities to be recorded without consent under the authorized surveillance provisions