Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7927

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- ELECTRONIC MONITORING IN NURSING, AND ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES

Impact

If enacted, H7927 would represent a significant shift in the way nursing and assisted living facilities are required to operate in terms of technology integration. It solidifies the expectation that such facilities must support the technological needs of their residents. This change could lead to a more supportive environment where residents have greater independence and monitoring capabilities, potentially improving overall health and safety outcomes. The bill is particularly pertinent in light of increasing reliance on technology in healthcare settings, especially for the elderly and those with disabilities.

Summary

House Bill 7927 aims to enhance the rights of residents in nursing and assisted living facilities by mandating these institutions to allow residents to connect their electronic monitoring devices to the facility's internet service without incurring additional costs or fees. The bill seeks to ensure that residents, particularly those who may need monitoring for health or safety reasons, have continuous access to the necessary technology that can facilitate communication and supervision. By removing barriers to internet access for monitoring devices, the bill addresses a critical aspect of resident autonomy and safety in supported living environments.

Contention

However, there may be notable points of contention surrounding H7927. Some facility operators could raise concerns about the potential financial implications of complying with the new requirements. The bill may lead to increased operational costs as facilities adjust their infrastructure to support external electronic devices, which could be perceived as a burden, particularly for smaller facilities. Additionally, there are discussions about privacy and security, as allowing electronic monitoring devices could raise issues regarding data protection and the extent of monitoring that is appropriate in residential care settings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0188

This act would repeal the exemption granted to pari mutual facilities and casinos from the smoke free workplace requirement contained in the Public Health and Workplace Safety Act.

RI S0060

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which allows for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2026, to be repaired at an independent repair provider.

RI H5246

Establishes a digital electronics right to repair, which would allow for digital electronic equipment and parts that are sold in this state on or after January 1, 2026, to be repaired at an independent repair provider

RI S0696

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

RI H6074

Authorizes an increase in resource eligibility limits for persons with long-term-care needs who reside at home and requires semi-annual reports from Medicaid certified assisted living facilities and adult day service providers to the EOHHS.

RI S0898

HEALTH AND SAFETY -- HEALTHCARE WORKER PLATFORM

RI S0466

Allows executive office of EOHHS to review current methodology for Medical payments to nursing facilities.

RI H5144

Allows executive office of EOHHS to review current methodology for Medical payments to nursing facilities.

RI H5986

Reduces the appropriation to Medicaid managed care in fiscal year 2025-2026 in order to increase the rates for Medicaid nursing facilities.

RI H5360

Requires search warrant for electronic information, prohibits stingray cell-site simulators.

Similar Bills

PA HB1970

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

CA AB1800

Portable electronics and optical products insurance.

TX SB1531

Relating to the electronic payment of ad valorem taxes; authorizing a fee.

PA SB861

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

NJ S1336

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

NJ A3229

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

MD SB842

Electronic Smoking Devices - Seizure and Wholesaler Record-Keeping Requirements

NV AB18

Revises provisions relating to the electronic filing of certain documents. (BDR 5-469)