Esther's Law Signed By Gov. Mike DeWine, Allows Families To Monitor Nursing Homes

COLUMBUS, OH — Gov. Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 58 on Wednesday afternoon, clearing the way for Ohioans to better monitor loved ones in nursing homes.

The law allows nursing home residents to install cameras in their rooms. Their families can then monitor the feeds and ensure their loved ones are being treated with respect.

The legislation is sometimes called Esther's Law. It's named for Esther “Mitzi” Piskor, who was abused while staying in a Cleveland nursing home, WKYC reported.

“Esther’s Law will provide families crucial peace of mind by allowing them to check up on their elderly loved ones wherever they may be. The COVID-19 pandemic truly highlighted the necessity of this legislation when in-person visits were not possible. It is an important first step in bringing families closer together and safeguarding the lives of some of the most vulnerable Ohioans," said state Sen. Nickie Antonio.

Senate Bill 58 was sponsored by Antonio, a Democrat from Lakewood, and state Sen. Andrew Brenner, a Republican from Delaware.

"Nursing home residents deserve to feel safe and cared for in their facilities and their families deserve the peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are safe," Brenner said after the bill was passed by the Ohio Senate.