10. a. A client of an adult family care home may not be deprived of any civil or legal rights, benefits or privileges guaranteed by law, the New Jersey Constitution, or the Constitution of the United States solely by reason of status as a resident in the home. In addition, each client has the right to:

(1) be treated as an adult, with respect, dignity, courtesy and consideration, and to have individual needs for privacy recognized and upheld;

(2) be informed of all client rights and house rules;

(3) make choices with respect to his care, services and lifestyle;

(4) be informed of his condition and the right to consent to or refuse care and services;

(5) participate, to the fullest extent that the client is able, in planning for his own care and services;

(6) receive appropriate care and services, as needed;

(7) a safe and secure environment;

(8) be free from abuse, exploitation and neglect;

(9) complete privacy when receiving care and services;

(10) associate and communicate privately with any person the client chooses;

(11) send and receive personal mail unopened;

(12) participate in activities of social, religious and community groups;

(13) have medical and personal information kept confidential;

(14) keep and use a reasonable amount of personal clothing and belongings, and to have a reasonable amount of private, secure storage space;

(15) manage his own money and financial affairs, unless legally restricted from doing so;

(16) receive a written agreement regarding the care and services to be provided, and the terms and conditions for termination of residency from the home;

(17) be provided with a written statement of the rates to be charged, and 30 days’ written notice of any change in the rates;

(18) practice the religion of his choice, or to abstain from religious practice;

(19) be free of discrimination in regard to race, color, national origin, sex or religion; and

(20) make suggestions and complaints without fear of retaliation.

b. The adult family care caregiver shall ensure that a written notice of the rights set forth in this section is given to every client. The caregiver shall also post this notice in the entry to, or other equally prominent location in, the adult family care home. This notice shall also include the name, address and telephone number of the Office of the Ombudsman for the Institutionalized Elderly.

L.2001,c.304,s.10.