RI S2686

Establishes the Office of the Elder Advocate to promote the rights, dignity, and well-being of Rhode Islanders aged 60 and older, particularly those living in homes and independent housing who lack dedicated advocacy

Governor appoints the elder advocate (with Senate consent) for a 5-year term; appointee must be a Rhode Island attorney with at least 5 years of practice and experience in elder rights, government benefits, elder abuse, and guardianship

Grants authority to receive complaints, advocate for systemic improvements in aging services, monitor state agencies for elder responsiveness, subpoena documents from courts and agencies, and educate the public on elder rights

Older adults represented by the office are exempt from court fees in district, superior, family, and supreme courts, including costs for serving legal documents

Requires annual reporting to the governor and legislative leadership; the state provides indemnification protection for office employees and volunteers except in cases of wanton, malicious, or grossly negligent acts