SB587

Senate Bill 587, titled the 'Parents' Peace of Mind Act,' establishes a framework for residents or their representatives to install and use electronic monitoring devices in Arkansas long-term care facilities. The bill allows for the installation of video surveillance and audio recording devices in private rooms at the expense of the resident or their representative. For shared rooms, the installation requires the written consent of all roommates or their representatives, with facilities obligated to facilitate room changes if consent is withheld. The legislation prohibits facilities from denying admission or discharging a resident based on the use of these devices. It also mandates that facilities post clear signage indicating the potential use of monitoring devices. Furthermore, the bill creates criminal penalties, specifically a Class D felony, for any individual or entity that tampers with, obstructs, or destroys such devices or recordings without authorization.