Bill > S139

This bill updates terminology and investigative practices related to the protection of persons with disabilities by making numerous amendments to Chapter 19C of Massachusetts General Laws. The bill introduces several key changes, including expanding the definition of "abuse" to include specific acts like sexual abuse and withholding adaptive aids, establishing a special investigative unit within the Disabled Persons Protection Commission with at least 5 state police officers, and clarifying investigation and referral procedures for reports of abuse. The legislation updates language to use "person with a disability" instead of "disabled person" and modifies reporting requirements for mandated reporters and caretaker agencies. The bill also enhances protections by allowing the commission to investigate allegations, refer matters involving potential violations to appropriate agencies, and provide protective services to persons with disabilities. Additionally, the bill updates definitions of key terms like "employer" and streamlines investigative processes, with a focus on maintaining confidentiality and minimizing personally identifiable information while ensuring thorough investigations of potential abuse.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S139