HB 49 Summary

• Reorganizes and renumbers Ohio's adult protective services statutes (sections 5101.60-5101.71), establishing clearer definitions and procedures for reporting and investigating abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults aged 60 and older.

• Expands mandatory reporting requirements to include 27+ categories of professionals and service providers (doctors, nurses, social workers, teachers, peace officers, accountants, bankers, etc.) who must immediately report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation to county job and family services departments.

• Establishes new "home first" components for PACE, PASSPORT, and assisted living programs that allow eligible individuals to enroll in community-based services rather than institutional care if they meet criteria such as nursing facility admission or physician-documented medical necessity.

• Creates an elder abuse commission consisting of appointed and ex officio members from various state agencies and organizations to develop strategies addressing elder abuse awareness, education, policy, and coordination of statewide efforts.

• Authorizes courts to issue emergency protective orders by telephone for adults at immediate risk of physical or financial harm, with temporary orders lasting up to 30 days and allowing asset freezing and removal from dangerous situations.