Governor Signs Elder Abuse Reporting Bill into Law

Written by Adam Peck Category: Nursing Homes January 23rd, 2013 2 min read

Senator Juan Vargas’ Senate Bill 718 was signed into law on Friday, September 30, 2011. The new law, effective January 1, 2012, will authorize counties across the State of California to offer a confidential internet system for reporting instances of elder abuse.

Mandated Reporting of Elder Abuse is expected from Health Care Providers, Law Enforcement and Financial Institutions

“This bill provides an important tool to ensuring the safety of our seniors,” said Nick Macchione, Director of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency. “By providing our mandated reporters, such as law enforcement and financial institutions, the ability to submit prompt and complete reports online, SB 718 will enable our staff to quickly address situations that put our most vulnerable residents in danger.”

Currently, mandated reporters, such as licensed health practitioners, must report instances of elder abuse in a timely manner. Due to the high volume of callers and a recent decrease in personnel due to budget cuts, there can be a lengthy wait before a call is answered on the county’s main elder abuse reporting phone line which handles calls from mandated reporters and the general public. In November 2010, it was determined that 27 percent of callers hung up rather than waiting on the line to report abuses, leaving seniors and dependent adults at further risk of abuse.

The secure internet system would require that mandated reporters provide the same information as required in writing or over the phone. This service would be made available at no additional cost to the State of California.

“Today, we scored a victory in protecting seniors from elder abuse! Establishing a confidential internet reporting system is a common-sense step to protect seniors and dependent adults,” stated Senator Juan Vargas (D-San Diego). “This effective reporting system will ensure that our seniors’ voices are heard and abuses are not overlooked.”

Share it

Questions? Check with Peck Today

Blog Lead Form

Elder Abuse and Neglect in Assisted Living Facilities

Elopement in Nursing Homes

Assisted Living Abuse

Settlement Reached in Assisted Living Facility Death

Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect Attorneys

Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.