Crimes and punishments; exploitation of elderly and disabled adults; property purchase; below market value; effective date.

HB 1176 creates new felony charges for exploiting vulnerable adults by taking their money, assets, or property. It specifically targets two practices: (1) taking funds/assets through a position of trust or business relationship, or (2) purchasing residential property from elderly (62+) or disabled adults for less than 70% of market value. Violations involving $100,000+ in assets carry up to 15 years in prison and $10,000 fines, while lower-value cases carry up to 10 years and the same fine. The law directly affects elderly and disabled adults who may be targeted by others seeking to take advantage of their vulnerability.