Bill H.582, introduced by Representative Noyes, aims to amend the definition of neglect in the context of protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The bill proposes to redefine neglect as the failure of a caregiver, agent, or fiduciary to provide necessary goods or services to maintain the health or safety of a vulnerable adult. It also clarifies that the actions of a caregiver or fiduciary will not be considered neglect if they are acting according to the wishes of the vulnerable adult or their representative. Additionally, the bill mandates that reports of alleged neglect occurring in state-licensed facilities or by licensed individuals must be directed to the relevant licensing entity, rather than solely to Adult Protective Services.

Furthermore, the bill extends the timeframes for the Human Services Board to conduct fair hearings and for hearing officers to issue findings when an alleged perpetrator contests a substantiated report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Specifically, it allows for a hearing to be expedited within 90 days of the notice of substantiation, with findings and recommendations to be issued within 30 days after the hearing. The bill is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 33-6902, 33-6904, 33-6906