An Act relative to the protection of vulnerable adults from sexual assault committed by mandated reporters, persons in a position of trust, and providers of transportation

This bill creates a new criminal offense specifically targeting sexual assault against vulnerable adults by individuals in positions of power or trust, such as mandated reporters, supervisors, and transportation providers. It defines a vulnerable adult as someone aged 14 or older who resides in mental health facilities, receives community-based services, or lives in a long-term care facility. The law establishes severe penalties, including up to twenty years in prison for a first offense and life imprisonment for repeat offenders, while explicitly stating that the victim's consent is not a valid defense. Additionally, the bill updates the legal definition of a sex offense to include these specific acts against vulnerable adults.