CT HB05456

Expands mandatory reporting requirements to include individuals receiving services from the Department of Developmental Services' Division of Autism Spectrum Disorder Services (ages 18-60), in addition to existing protections for persons with intellectual disability.

Broadens the definition of "abuse" to include financial exploitation, psychological abuse, verbal abuse, and sexual abuse, in addition to wilful infliction of physical pain or injury and deprivation of necessary services.

Adds new definitions of financial exploitation, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, and verbal abuse with specific criteria for each type of misconduct by employees.

Transfers responsibility for investigating autism spectrum disorder cases from the Office of Protection and Advocacy to the Department of Developmental Services Commissioner, with similar investigation and reporting procedures.

Updates the Department of Developmental Services abuse and neglect registry to track terminated or separated employees (rather than individuals) who have been substantiated for abuse or neglect, with requirements for employers to check the registry before hiring.