AR SB519

Creates the Vulnerable Person Protection Act, establishing Chapter 29 of Arkansas Code Title 5 with criminal penalties for abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable persons.

Defines vulnerable persons as individuals age 69 or older, or anyone receiving 24-hour care in an inpatient facility.

Establishes abuse of a vulnerable person as a Class B felony if causing serious physical injury or death risk, Class D felony if causing physical injury, or Class B misdemeanor otherwise; provides affirmative defense for necessary physical or chemical restraints.

Criminalizes neglect of a vulnerable person as a Class D felony if causing serious physical injury or death risk, Class B misdemeanor if causing physical injury, or Class C misdemeanor otherwise.

Criminalizes exploitation of vulnerable persons with penalties based on asset value: Class B felony for $2,500 or more, Class C felony for $200-$2,499, and Class A misdemeanor for $200 or less.