SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6403
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 1, 2012
Title: An act relating to removing financial barriers to persons seeking vulnerable adult protection orders.
Brief Description: Removing financial barriers to persons seeking vulnerable adult protection orders.
Sponsors: Senator Regala.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 2/02/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE |
Staff: Kathleen Buchli (786-7488)
Background: A vulnerable adult is a person who is 60 years of age or older who has the functional, mental, or physical inability to care for himself or herself; has been found to be incapacitated; has a developmental disability; has been admitted to a facility such as a nursing home, boarding home, or adult family home; or receives services from home health, hospice or home care agencies, or an individual provider. A vulnerable adult may seek relief from abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, or neglect by filing a petition for an order for protection in superior court in the county where the vulnerable adult resides. No filing fee may be charged to a vulnerable adult for filing such a petition; standard forms and written instructions must be provided free of charge.
Summary of Bill: A public agency may not charge a filing fee or a fee for service of process to a vulnerable adult seeking relief from abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, or neglect. Vulnerable adults must be provided the necessary number of certified copies at no cost.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.