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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | February 13, 2017 11:50 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Carol Hill-Evans |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Elder Abuse – Sentencing Enhancement (Re-Introduction) |
| In the near future, I will re-introduce legislation – former House Bill 646 of the 2015-2016 Legislative Session – that would provide a sentencing enhancement for the neglect of a care-dependent person that results in the victim’s death. Today, more than 75 percent of adult care-giving is provided by family members of all ages. The aging adult population is increasing over the years; therefore, there is a need to implement tougher penalties on those who are neglecting the health and well-being of a care-dependent individual. The existing offense of neglect of a care-dependent person applies to intentional, knowing, or reckless conduct by a caretaker that causes bodily injury or serious bodily injury by failing to provide treatment, care, goods, or services necessary to preserve the health, safety, or welfare of a care-dependent person. The offense also involves the intentional use of a physical restraint, chemical restraint, or medication on a care-dependent person such that bodily injury or serious bodily injury results. My bill would change the current law by directing the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to provide a sentencing enhancement for the neglect of a care-dependent person if it results in the victim’s death. Please join me in co-sponsoring this measure to protect our seniors from potential abuse. |