New Jersey Senate Bill S3197

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/13/22
• Refer: 10/13/22

Caption

Requires association of age-restricted community to retain emergency contact information for residents.

Impact

The legislation aims to ensure timely notification to selected contacts of residents when an emergency arises, such as hospitalization or death. By mandating that community associations gather and manage this information, S3197 seeks to streamline communication in critical situations, thus potentially reducing the incidence of unreported emergencies among elderly residents who may be living alone.

Summary

Senate Bill S3197 requires associations within age-restricted communities to establish procedures for collecting and maintaining emergency contact information for residents. This information will include the next-of-kin and a preferred contact in the event of a resident's hospitalization or death. The bill is designed to enhance support and communication regarding emergencies within communities that cater specifically to older adults.

Contention

Notably, the bill imposes a civil penalty of $500 on associations that fail to comply with the notification requirements, emphasizing the accountability of these communities to their residents. Furthermore, the bill empowers the Commissioner of Community Affairs to create regulations regarding the proper collection and handling of emergency contact details, raising points about privacy and data management in age-restricted environments. Concerns may arise regarding how effectively communities can implement these measures and the implications of such compliance on their operational dynamics.