C.M.R. 10, 149, ch. 1 - Adult Protective Services System

SUMMARY: This chapter sets forth the policy of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (Department) regarding reporting of known or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of incapacitated or dependent adults, Adult Protective Services investigations, and substantiations and coordination with other agencies. As required by 22 M.R.S. ch. 958-A and 34-B M.R.S. §5604-A, Adult Protective Services investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, or the substantial risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation for incapacitated and dependent adults, including individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism. This rule is in conformance with the May 31, 2005, amended consent decree in Bouyea v. Nicholas, U.S. Dist. Ct., D. Me., No. 1:04-cv-28. The Department will preserve the confidentiality and limit the disclosure of Adult Protective Services records in conformance with the Adult Protective Services Act, 22 M.R.S. §§3470, et seq.