Creates the Vulnerable Adult Fatality Review Committee. (BDR 38-311)
Impact
The establishment of the Vulnerable Adult Fatality Review Committee is significant in that it provides a structured method for assessing adult maltreatment cases statewide. The Committee will have the authority to review relevant medical records, autopsy results, and social service information, thereby fostering an environment of transparency and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Moreover, it is expected to produce biennial reports that highlight data trends and recommend legislative changes or policy corrections aimed at reducing such maltreatment scenarios. This approach may lead to stronger protections for vulnerable individuals and better alignment of services under the guidance of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Summary
AB119 aims to establish the Vulnerable Adult Fatality Review Committee, which will be responsible for examining deaths associated with adult maltreatment. This bill defines adult maltreatment as the abuse, neglect, exploitation, isolation, or abandonment of older individuals or vulnerable persons. By creating this Committee, the bill intends to facilitate a thorough review of fatalities linked to these issues and develop reports that will address the underlying causes and prevention strategies for such maltreatment. The new legislative approach introduces an organized framework for systematically reviewing cases of adult maltreatment, which has been a growing concern in many states.
Contention
The proposed bill, while largely viewed as a progressive step towards safeguarding vulnerable adults, may raise concerns about the confidentiality of sensitive information and the jurisdictional powers of the Committee. Critics might argue that closed meetings and restricted access to information could hinder accountability and limit public oversight. Another point of contention could be the sufficient allocation of resources to ensure that the Committee can effectively perform its duties and succeed in its mandate. Thus, the bill is framed within a context of both advocacy for vulnerable adults and the inherent challenges of implementing such significant changes within the state systems.
Revises provisions relating to exploitation involving the deposits or proceeds of an account held by an older person or a vulnerable person in joint tenancy. (BDR 15-427)
Requires a caller making a report of suspected child abuse or maltreatment to the central register to leave their name and contact information; prohibits the office of children and family services from releasing information identifying a person who made such a report.
Requires a caller making a report of suspected child abuse or maltreatment to the central register to leave their name and contact information; prohibits the office of children and family services from releasing information identifying a person who made such a report.
An Act Concerning Minor Revisions To The Statutes Of The Department Of Children And Families And Establishing A Pilot Program To Permit Electronic Reporting By Mandated Reporters.