Abuse of elderly and disabled adults; Protective Services for the Vulnerable Adults Act; definition; persons required to report; investigation and reporting; Oklahoma's Protection and Advocacy System; Nursing Home Care Act; liability; waivers; reports; effective date.

HB 1835 amends Oklahoma's definitions and requirements for protecting vulnerable adults, directly affecting elderly and disabled individuals who cannot meet their own essential health and safety needs. The bill updates key terms like "abuse" (including physical, sexual, and emotional harm), "exploitation" (financial misuse), and "neglect," while adding specific rules about electronic images to prevent "personal degradation." It requires caregivers and service providers to report suspected abuse, clarifies liability protections for good-faith reporters, and defines "vulnerable adult" to include those with disabilities, dementia, or incapacity. The law also establishes clearer procedures for investigations and reporting to the Department of Human Services.