House approves virtual monitoring for residential care homes with roommates’ consent

The Connecticut House adopted an amendment to HB 5142 that narrows the bill to permit virtual monitoring systems in residential care homes. Representative Garibay, the bill’s proponent, said the change mirrors existing nursing home statutes but inserts explicit consent protections for roommates and assigns responsibility for equipment to the person who installs it rather than the facility.

Supporters argued the measure will help families who require remote monitoring of loved ones while preserving privacy: the amendment requires written, revocable consent from roommates and clarifies that facilities bear no liability for privately installed equipment. The House adopted House Amendment A by voice vote and passed the bill.

What’s next: The bill moves to the Senate; facilities and consumer-advocates said they will watch implementing guidance closely to ensure consent and data security standards are met.