Bill Summary: Protection of People with Special Needs Act (A10721)

• Creates the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs within the Executive Department, headed by an Executive Director appointed by the Governor with Senate consent, to oversee abuse prevention and protection systems for vulnerable persons in state facilities.

• Establishes a statewide Vulnerable Persons' Central Register to receive and investigate reports of abuse, neglect, and significant incidents involving vulnerable persons in facilities operated, licensed, or certified by six state agencies; creates a 24/7 hotline for mandated reporters.

• Eliminates the State Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities (Article 45 of Mental Hygiene Law) and transfers its functions to the new Justice Center.

• Implements uniform definitions and procedures for investigating reportable incidents across state agencies, with findings categorized into four categories; Category One substantiated cases result in permanent placement on a register barring employment with vulnerable persons.

• Requires criminal background checks for prospective employees, volunteers, and consultants working with vulnerable persons; establishes a code of conduct for direct support workers and requires training curricula on abuse prevention and reporting obligations.

• Takes effect June 30, 2013, with implementation provisions authorized to begin immediately.