ND bill aims to protect seniors, vulnerable adults

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BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Health care workers, law enforcement and other professionals would be required to report the abuse of senior citizens and other vulnerable adults under bipartisan legislation considered by the North Dakota Senate.

Sen. Phil Murphy, D-Portland, said North Dakota and Colorado are the only two states that don't require the reporting of adult abuse. Murphy told the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday that the bill is intended to protect seniors from physical, mental, sexual and financial abuse.

North Dakota law requires the reporting of child abuse or neglect. Murphy, who taught school for 35 years, said he has reported suspected abuse of children at least seven times, as mandated by state law.

“I find it difficult to understand why we here in North Dakota would not afford the same measure of respect to our elder citizens,” Murphy said. “The idea is to help our old folks.”

Failure to report abuse would be an infraction resulting in fines of up to $500. No criminal charges would result.

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