Bill > S466

This bill seeks to strengthen protections for vulnerable elderly persons by expanding the definition and reporting of elder abuse, particularly in state-controlled facilities like prisons and commitment centers. The bill modifies existing law to broaden the definition of "abuse" to include physical, emotional, and financial harm, and expands the definition of "caretaker" to include a wide range of individuals and agencies responsible for elder care. It establishes new requirements for reporting and investigating elder abuse, including mandating that the Department of Elder Affairs develop a coordinated system of protective services, conduct assessments within 24 hours of receiving an abuse report, and provide services such as emergency shelter, legal assistance, and counseling. The bill also introduces provisions to protect those who report abuse from retaliation, requires detailed annual reporting on elder abuse cases, and ensures that elderly persons in state facilities like prisons cannot be charged for protective services. Importantly, the bill removes confidentiality barriers that might prevent reporting abuse and gives the Department of Elder Affairs broad investigative powers, including immediate access to state agency facilities and the ability to refer cases to prosecutors or initiate formal investigations when abuse is suspected.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S466