House Committee Passes Lauren's Law

COLUMBUS -The House Families and Aging Committee yesterday passed House Bill 465, known as Lauren's Law.

The legislation will create permissive language to be adopted by ICF/IIDs and residential facilities, enabling residents and their guardians to use electronic monitoring within the resident's room. The request for electronic monitoring can come from the resident, guardian, or an attorney.

Lauren's Law will give families and residents peace of mind and ensure transparency and oversight of the quality of care these residents receive in the facility.

The legislation is named after Lauren Carter, a 36-year-old Ohio woman who is developmentally disabled and has been the victim of disturbing abuse and neglect while in Intermediate Care Facilities for three decades.

"While Lauren's Law is not a silver bullet; it is the first step to ensuring that residents receive quality care in ICF/IID facilities," said Carruthers. "I appreciate the committee process Lauren's Law went through, and I look forward to seeing the bill on the House floor after summer break."

Lauren's Law passed out of committee 12-1. The legislation awaits a vote on the House floor.