House Bill No. 5294, also known as File No. 148, is a legislative proposal that requires the establishment of a registry for individuals convicted of financial crimes against elderly persons. The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is tasked with creating and maintaining this registry by July 1, 2025. The bill defines relevant terms and outlines the registration process, which includes providing personal information and maintaining registration for five years. It also mandates that the registry information be made public and integrated into a database for those hiring individuals to assist elderly persons. The bill includes provisions for updating the registry, notification requirements for registrants, and establishes a class D felony for failing to comply with registration requirements.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 19a-491c of the general statutes, introducing new definitions and requiring the Department of Public Health (DPH) to review the new registry for inclusion in the background search program for long-term care facilities. It prohibits long-term care facilities from employing individuals with disqualifying offenses unless a waiver is granted and outlines the process for granting waivers. The bill also updates the probate courts' jurisdiction over name changes, particularly for individuals with certain convictions, and grants the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection the authority to challenge name change applications. The fiscal impact includes costs for establishing and maintaining the registry, expanding the DPH's background check system, and potential costs associated with the new class D felony. The bill's effective date is upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 52-11
AGE Joint Favorable: 52-11
File No. 148: 52-11