Bill > H4557

This bill proposes several changes to Massachusetts law to enhance protections for older adults and persons with disabilities against unfair and deceptive practices. First, it establishes the Older Adults and Disabled Persons Abuse Prevention Fund, which will receive excess revenues from consumer protection fines and use those funds for educational materials and programs about consumer rights and deceptive practices targeting vulnerable populations. The bill defines "older adults" as persons 65 years or older and "persons with disabilities" as individuals with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit fundamental life activities, providing a comprehensive list of qualifying conditions and activities. Additionally, the bill amends existing consumer protection laws to allow courts to impose an extra civil penalty of up to $2,500 for violations targeting older adults or persons with disabilities, with the penalty determined by factors such as whether the defendant knew they were targeting vulnerable individuals, the extent of harm caused (like loss of residence, income, or retirement assets), and the increased vulnerability of the victims due to age, health, or disability. These provisions aim to provide stronger legal recourse and financial deterrence against those who intentionally exploit older and disabled individuals.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Aging and Independence (Other)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4557