The bill aims to enhance protections for older adults and persons with disabilities by increasing penalties for unfair and deceptive practices targeting these vulnerable groups. It establishes the Older Adults and Disabled Persons Abuse Prevention Fund, which will receive revenues generated from violations of consumer protection laws exceeding previous fiscal year collections. The fund will be used to create educational materials and seminars to inform older adults and disabled persons about their rights and deceptive practices that may affect them.

Additionally, the bill amends Chapter 93A of the General Laws to define "older adult" as individuals aged 65 and over, and "persons with disabilities" as those with significant physical or mental impairments. It also introduces a provision allowing courts to impose an additional civil penalty of up to $2,500 for violations against older adults or persons with disabilities, taking into account factors such as the defendant's awareness of their conduct's impact on these groups and the extent of harm caused. This legislative effort seeks to deter exploitative actions and provide better support for affected individuals.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 93A-4