Crimes: elder abuse.

Existing law prohibits the abuse or neglect of an elder or dependant adult, as specified. Under existing law a violation of these provisions is punishable as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. Existing law, for purposes of these provisions, defines an "elder" as a person 65 years of age or older, and a "dependant adult" as a person between 18 and 64 years of age who has certain defined physical or mental limitations. This bill would, for purposes of the elder and dependant adult abuse and neglect provisions, define an "elder" as a person who is 60 years of age or older, and define a "dependant adult" as a person between 18 and 59 years of age who has certain defined physical and mental limitations. By redefining "elder," this bill would expand the applicability of these crimes and impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.