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SB 587

GOVERNMENT-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Don Harmon

Senate Bill 587 allows electronic monitoring in long-term care facilities, enhancing resident safety while ensuring consent and privacy rights are respected.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 587

Summary of Senate Bill 587 (SB 587)

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 587, titled the Parents' Peace of Mind Act, aims to establish regulations for the use of electronic monitoring devices in long-term care facilities in Arkansas. The bill is designed to enhance the safety and oversight of residents in these facilities by allowing authorized electronic monitoring while ensuring that residents' rights and privacy are respected.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions regarding electronic monitoring:

  1. Definitions:

    • Authorized Electronic Monitoring: The placement of electronic devices in common areas or resident rooms for recording purposes.
    • Authorized Electronic Monitoring Devices: Includes video surveillance cameras and audio devices.

  2. Consent Requirements:

    • Facilities must provide written notice to residents or their representatives that monitoring is voluntary and requires consent.
    • A facility cannot deny admission or remove a resident based on their refusal to consent to monitoring.

  3. Notification:

    • Facilities are required to post signs indicating that monitoring devices may be in use.

  4. Prohibitions:

    • Tampering with or destroying monitoring devices is classified as a Class D felony.
    • Intercepting or disclosing communications from monitoring devices without consent is also prohibited.

  5. Installation in Private and Shared Rooms:

    • Residents can install monitoring devices in their private rooms at their own expense, with proper notification.
    • For shared rooms, consent from all roommates is required, and facilities must accommodate requests for room changes if consent is not granted.

  6. Compliance and Transition:

    • The Office of Long-Term Care will prepare consent forms and ensure compliance with the new regulations by the effective date.

Affected Parties

  • Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities: The bill directly impacts residents by providing them the option for monitoring, enhancing their safety and peace of mind.
  • Long-Term Care Facilities: Facilities will need to implement new policies and procedures to comply with the monitoring regulations.
  • Family Members and Guardians: The act empowers family members and guardians to monitor the care of their loved ones, ensuring their well-being.

Procedural Aspects

  • Effective Date: The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.
  • Legislative Journey: The bill was introduced on March 31, 2025, and has undergone several readings and amendments in both the Senate and House. However, it died in the Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 587 seeks to balance the need for oversight in long-term care facilities with the rights of residents. By allowing electronic monitoring under strict regulations, the bill aims to provide peace of mind to families while ensuring that residents are treated with dignity and respect.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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