Bill > HB0534

This bill amends the definitions and powers of Adult Protective Services (APS) in Utah, expanding and clarifying key terms related to vulnerable adult protection. The bill introduces new definitions such as "capacity," "decision-making ability," and "position of trust and confidence" to provide more precise legal understanding of vulnerable adult care. It broadens the definition of "abuse" to include reckless actions, imminent harm, and patterns of neglect, and modifies definitions of "neglect" and "emotional or psychological abuse" to be more comprehensive. The bill also enhances APS's investigative powers, allowing them to make a supported finding of abuse if an alleged perpetrator does not provide requested documents, and giving them broader access to medical and financial records through administrative subpoenas. Additionally, the bill clarifies what constitutes undue influence and expands the understanding of vulnerable adults to include those with mental or physical impairments that substantially affect their ability to care for themselves. The amendments aim to strengthen protections for vulnerable adults by providing APS with more robust tools to investigate and respond to potential abuse, neglect, or exploitation. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0534.html