New Jersey Senate Bill S1519

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/22
• Refer: 2/10/22

Caption

Establishes civil action for abuse, neglect, exploitation or bullying of minor or adult with disability; provides that bullying of vulnerable adult may constitute grounds for investigation by adult protective services and report to law enforcement.

Impact

The implications of S1519 are significant for both minors and adults with disabilities. For minors under 18, the bill permits legal action to be initiated within 37 years after reaching the age of majority, or within seven years of discovering the injury and its cause. For adults, the statute allows actions to be initiated within seven years of discovery. This extended timeframe aims to ensure that injured parties are afforded adequate opportunity to seek recourse, thus enhancing protections under New Jersey law against abuse and bullying.

Summary

Senate Bill S1519, introduced on February 10, 2022, seeks to establish a civil framework for addressing cases of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or bullying of minors and adults with disabilities. The bill amends existing statutes and adds provisions to the Adult Protective Services Act to enhance protections for disabled individuals. Notably, it sets specific timelines for filing civil actions regarding such injuries and introduces provisions that require healthcare professionals and first responders to report incidents of bullying against vulnerable adults.

Contention

Debates surrounding the bill are likely to arise concerning its enforcement and the adequacy of protections it affords. While proponents believe that it solidifies essential protections for vulnerable populations, critics might argue about the practicality of enforcement and the necessity of additional resources for protective services. The bill also specifies increased criminal penalties for acts against individuals with developmental disabilities, which may attract ongoing discussions on the balance between punishment and prevention in safeguarding vulnerable adults.