Bill > S172

This bill modifies an existing law in Chapter 19C of Massachusetts General Laws by expanding the definition of "mandated reporters" who are legally required to report abuse of disabled persons. Specifically, the bill adds firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to the existing list of professionals who must report suspected abuse. Mandated reporters are individuals in certain professions who are legally obligated to report potential cases of abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities, in this case focusing on abuse involving disabled persons. By including firefighters and EMTs in this definition, the bill ensures that these first responders, who often encounter vulnerable individuals in the course of their work, are required to alert authorities if they witness or suspect abuse, potentially helping to protect disabled persons from harm by increasing the number of professionals actively monitoring and reporting potential abuse.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S172