Adult Protective Services - Investigations and Disclosure of Information

SB 347 allows local social services departments in Maryland to request assistance from federal law enforcement officers during investigations of alleged abuse, neglect, or exploitation involving vulnerable adults. It directly affects vulnerable adults at risk and the local departments conducting these investigations. The bill updates key provisions by explicitly authorizing local departments to seek federal law enforcement help (in Section 14-303(c)(3)) and clarifies that agencies involved in investigations may share relevant client information. It also revises disclosure rules (Section 1-201) to ensure information sharing aligns with adult protective services investigations. These changes aim to strengthen investigative capacity while maintaining appropriate information protocols.