Bill > HB527

This bill, known as the Communication of Older Adult Abuse Act, establishes communication protocols between the Department of Health, Department of Human Services, and Department of Aging regarding allegations of abuse in care facilities. The bill defines key terms such as "abuse," "adult," "facility," and "older adult," drawing definitions from existing protective services acts. When an abuse allegation is reported involving an older adult or adult in a facility, the receiving department must refer the allegation to the appropriate agency for investigation (local area agency on aging for older adults, or local contracted protective services provider for adults) and share all relevant information that is not legally prohibited from disclosure. The departments are also required to establish ongoing communication to determine the most effective way to share such information. Importantly, the bill does not override existing mandatory reporting requirements under current protective services laws. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage, and it may also be referred to as the Robert Raph Act. The primary goal is to improve coordination and information sharing to better protect vulnerable populations in care facilities.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=527