Carson City, NV October 09, 2023
In honor of Residents’ Rights Month, the Aging and Disability Services Division Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) is proud to highlight Assembly Bill (AB) 202, an initiative aimed at enhancing residents’ wellbeing and security in skilled nursing facilities.
October is Residents’ Rights Month and an opportunity to focus on the importance of respecting residents’ dignity, autonomy, and rights. AB202 supports these principles, equipping residents with tools to protect themselves and stay in touch with loved ones. Effective October 1st, this legislation permits residents or their representatives to make a request to the facility for the installation of electronic communication devices in their rooms with costs borne by the resident.
Bill sponsor, Assemblywoman Shondra Summers-Armstrong stated, “It is serendipitous that AB202 goes into effect during Residents Rights Month, which provides an opportunity to focus on and raise awareness of the dignity and rights of residents of long-term care facilities. AB202 codifies the right of a resident to be able to use a device to communicate with their family and to feel safe in their living quarters, which is their home. The legislation does not answer every question, but it is a step in the right direction.”
The bill is modeled after Esther's Law from Ohio, named after Esther Piskor, who was abused and neglected in a nursing home. Her son, Steve Piskor, installed a hidden camera in her room, which revealed the unlawful activities in the facility.
Marie Coe, State Long Term Care Ombudsman expressed her support for the bill stating, “AB 202 is a positive step for transparency during personal care for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Families will be able to monitor care from afar for loved ones and have a tool to use for communication.”
To learn more about the LTCOP go to https://ow.ly/2WH050PUOte
To report concerns in long term care facilities, please contact the LTCOP Helpline at 888-282-1155 or complete the complaint form visit: LTC Ombudsman Inquiry/Complaint Form.