RI H7995

Establishes the Office of the Elder Advocate to protect rights of Rhode Islanders aged 60 and older, particularly those living in their own homes who lack dedicated advocacy (unlike long-term care facility residents served by existing ombudsman)

Governor appoints the elder advocate, with senate consent, for a 5-year term; appointee must be a bar member with at least 5 years of Rhode Island legal practice and experience in elder rights, benefits, abuse/neglect, and guardianship

Office duties include receiving complaints about rights infringements, advocating for systemic improvements in aging services, monitoring state agencies for elder responsiveness, and educating the public on elder rights

Elder advocate has authority to communicate privately with older adults, access and subpoena documents from courts, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and state agencies, and accept grants and gifts

Older adults represented by the office are exempt from court fees, and office staff receive state indemnification for acts within their employment scope (excluding wanton, malicious, or grossly negligent conduct)