Bill > HB1835

This bill enhances protections for vulnerable adults in Oklahoma by amending several existing laws to strengthen reporting and investigation requirements for abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The bill adds a new definition for "Oklahoma's Protection and Advocacy System" to existing statutes related to vulnerable adults and nursing home care, and requires that this system be notified of various reports and investigations involving potential abuse or neglect. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Department of Human Services forward copies of initial reports and investigation findings to the Protection and Advocacy System, and that medical examiners, law enforcement, and facilities report serious incidents to both the Department and this system. The bill expands definitions of abuse and neglect, clarifies who is required to report potential abuse (including healthcare professionals, social workers, law enforcement, and municipal employees), and provides immunity from liability for those who report in good faith. The legislation aims to improve oversight and protection for vulnerable populations by ensuring more comprehensive reporting and investigation of potential abuse or neglect, with a particular focus on keeping the Protection and Advocacy System informed of potential issues. The changes will become effective on November 1, 2025.

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http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1835&Session=2600