The proposed bill, titled the "Vulnerable Person Protection Act," aims to enhance the legal protections for vulnerable individuals in Arkansas by establishing new criminal penalties for abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It introduces a new chapter in the Arkansas Code, specifically Chapter 29, which includes definitions and classifications of offenses related to vulnerable persons. The bill defines a "vulnerable person" as anyone aged 69 or older or those receiving 24-hour care in an inpatient facility. It outlines various forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, detailing the responsibilities of caregivers and healthcare providers, and specifies the legal consequences for violations, including classifications of felonies and misdemeanors based on the severity of the offense.
Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of penalties for abuse, which can range from a Class B felony for serious physical injury to a Class B misdemeanor for lesser offenses. Neglect is similarly categorized, with penalties varying from a Class D felony for serious harm to a Class C misdemeanor for minor neglect. Exploitation of vulnerable persons is also addressed, with penalties based on the value of exploited assets. The bill emphasizes the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and holds caregivers and healthcare providers accountable for their actions, thereby reinforcing the legal framework for protecting those who may be at risk of harm.