New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1364

Introduced
1/9/24  
Refer
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires certain group homes and supervised apartments to install electronic monitoring devices in common areas under certain circumstances; "Billy Cray's Law."

Impact

The law is significant in its implications for state regulations governing group homes, as it emphasizes the vulnerability of individuals with developmental disabilities to abuse. It establishes protocols for the installation and use of monitoring devices, which must remain voluntary and conditional upon obtaining consent from all roommates. This legislation reflects a commitment to safeguarding the rights of residents while balancing the need for effective supervision and oversight in group living situations.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1364, also known as 'Billy Cray's Law', aims to mandate the installation of electronic monitoring devices in common areas of certain group homes and supervised apartments for individuals with developmental disabilities. This legislation stems from the tragic case of Billy Cray, who died under concerning circumstances in a group home, highlighting the need for enhanced oversight and preventative measures against abuse and neglect. The act seeks to empower residents and their authorized representatives to monitor treatment and living conditions more proactively.

Contention

While the bill is designed to improve safety, it has raised concerns regarding privacy rights. The requirement for consent to install monitoring devices means that if one roommate declines, the implementation could be obstructed, potentially denying others the added security. Furthermore, there may be apprehension about the extent to which surveillance could intrude into personal lives. Licensees are held liable if monitoring occurs outside designated areas, underscoring the importance of careful adherence to privacy regulations.

Companion Bills

NJ A5676

Carry Over Requires certain group homes and supervised apartments to install electronic monitoring devices in common areas under certain circumstances; "Billy Cray's Law."

Previously Filed As

NJ A2705

Requires certain group homes to install electronic monitoring devices in common areas, upon request and with uniform resident consent.

NJ S1172

Requires certain group homes to install electronic monitoring devices in common areas, upon request and with uniform resident consent.

NJ A805

Requires nursing homes to permit use of electronic monitoring devices at request of resident.

NJ S1285

Requires installation of fuel gas sensor devices in certain dwelling units.

NJ A2700

Requires certain preliminary approval by municipality prior to licensure of community group homes.

NJ A10139

Requires providers of residential services to developmentally disabled children to have electronic monitoring devices in the common areas of their residential facilities.

NJ SB1020

Relating to personal bond offices, to the notification provided to a judge regarding tampering with an electronic monitoring device while released on bond or community supervision, and to the availability of certain information regarding a person required to submit to an electronic monitoring program or being supervised by a community supervision and corrections department.

NJ A1213

Requires hospital to install and operate electronic monitoring device at request of incapacitated patient or patient's legal representative.

NJ S3721

Requires installation of Type IV flotation devices at certain lakes, ponds, and rivers.

NJ S1936

Provides electric public utility customers' right to decline installation of smart meter under certain circumstances.

Similar Bills

OK HB2051

Practice of medicine; creating the Supervised Physicians Act; limiting scope of supervised practice; directing specified Boards to promulgate certain rules; requiring collaborative practice arrangements; creating certain exemptions; effective date.

OK HB2051

Practice of medicine; creating the Supervised Physicians Act; limiting scope of supervised practice; directing specified Boards to promulgate certain rules; requiring collaborative practice arrangements; creating certain exemptions; effective date.

CA SB396

Corrections: supervision.

IL SB1785

CD CORR-MSR-SUPERVISION CREDIT

WV HB2198

Relating to extended supervision for certain drug offenders

MS HB1062

Dental hygienists; authorize to provide services to patients under the general supervision of dentists under certain conditions.