MT HB532

Creates new felony crime for purposely or knowingly abusing, sexually abusing, or neglecting a vulnerable adult, punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and $10,000 fine; negligent abuse is a misdemeanor on first offense (up to 1 year, $1,000 fine)

Defines "vulnerable adult" as persons 60+ years old, or adults 18+ with physical/mental impairments substantially limiting self-care ability or with developmental disabilities

Establishes exploitation of incapacitated persons or vulnerable adults as a felony punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and $10,000 fine when offenders in positions of trust use deception, fraud, or undue influence to obtain the victim's assets

Adds enhanced penalties for identity theft when victims are minors, incapacitated persons, or vulnerable adults—up to $20,000 fine and 20 years imprisonment

Criminalizes failure to report abuse or neglect of vulnerable adults and making false reports to adult protective services; repeals existing sections 45-6-333 and 52-3-825 to consolidate these protections into new statutory framework