If enacted, SB00247 will fundamentally alter how the state of Connecticut handles cases of elder abuse. It will require amendments to title 17b of the general statutes to facilitate the establishment of this registry. Authorities involved will include the Department of Social Services and the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. The legislation indicates a proactive approach towards safeguarding vulnerable populations by ensuring that individuals with a history of abusing or exploiting elders cannot easily evade accountability.
Summary
SB00247 aims to address the growing concern over elder abuse by establishing a comprehensive registry of individuals convicted of crimes against seniors. This legislation will create a centralized database managed by the Commissioner of Social Services, in consultation with other relevant agencies. The primary objective is to enhance protection for elderly citizens against various forms of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, which are significant issues in many communities. By providing public access to this registry, the bill seeks to hold offenders accountable and deter potential abuse through increased transparency.
Contention
While proponents of the bill advocate for increased protection of the elderly, there may be points of contention regarding privacy concerns for those listed on the registry or the potential for misuse of such information. Advocates argue that the necessity of a public database outweighs these concerns, emphasizing the critical need to protect seniors from harm. Discussions in legislative committees will likely highlight the balance between safeguarding elder rights and ensuring due process for offenders, making it a potentially polarizing issue among lawmakers.
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