NY S02171

Establishes a statewide central register in the Office of Children and Family Services to receive reports of elder abuse and maltreatment 24/7 through a single statewide telephone number, with capability to identify prior reports and monitor adult protective services.

Requires mandated reporters including physicians, nurses, social workers, law enforcement, nursing home staff, and other healthcare professionals to immediately report suspected elder abuse or maltreatment of persons age 60 and older to the central registry.

Imposes Class A misdemeanor penalties for willful failure to report and civil liability for damages caused by knowingly and willfully failing to report suspected elder abuse or maltreatment.

Creates an Elder Justice Coordinating Council with 21 members including state agency commissioners and gubernatorial appointees to coordinate interagency responses, establish community forums across eight state regions, and develop a comprehensive state plan for identifying and investigating elder abuse cases.

Provides immunity from criminal and civil liability for persons who make good faith reports of elder abuse or maltreatment, with the act effective October 1, 2018, except the central register provisions effective January 1, 2020.