Removes the intent requirement relative to the definitions of "abuse" within the chapter on "abuse in healthcare facilities" and amends the definitions of "abuse" and "neglect" with regard to elderly affairs by deleting the element of willful conduct.

Plain-English Summary

This bill changes how Rhode Island law defines "abuse" and "neglect" when it comes to patients in healthcare facilities and elderly individuals. Currently, the law requires proof that a caregiver *intended* to cause harm or acted *willfully* (on purpose) for their actions to be considered abuse or neglect. This bill would remove that requirement, meaning that harmful actions or failures to provide proper care could be considered abuse or neglect regardless of whether the person meant to cause harm.

In practical terms, this means that if a healthcare worker or caregiver causes harm through carelessness, negligence, or poor practice — even without any intention to hurt someone — their actions could still be classified as abuse or neglect under the law. The change applies to two areas: Rhode Island's laws governing abuse in healthcare facilities (such as nursing homes or assisted living centers) and the state's laws specifically protecting elderly residents.

This bill most directly affects patients in healthcare facilities, elderly Rhode Islanders, the caregivers and staff who work with them, and the facilities themselves. Patients and elderly individuals could receive stronger legal protections, since it would be easier to establish that abuse or neglect occurred. At the same time, healthcare workers and facilities could face greater scrutiny, as unintentional but harmful actions would no longer be shielded from the legal definition of abuse or neglect.

The bill has been introduced and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.