Cameras in Kentucky

Kentucky lawmakers are considering House Bill 491, legislation that would allow residents of nursing homes and other long‑term care facilities to install visible video monitoring cameras—often called “granny cams”—in their rooms to help deter and document potential abuse or neglect.

Under the proposal, facilities would be required to post notices when a room is being monitored and all residents in the room must give written consent before
cameras can be used. Supporters say the bill would give families greater transparency and peace of mind about the care their loved ones receive, especially for residents who cannot advocate for themselves, while critics raise concerns about privacy and how recordings might be used.

The legislation also directs the state health cabinet to establish forms and rules for how recordings are stored and accessed, and it has been assigned to a House committee for further consideration.