651 CMR, § 5.03 - Functions and Responsibilities of the Department

(1) The Department shall, subject to appropriation, maintain a state-wide Protective Services Program to receive reports of the Abuse of Elders, which shall be accessible on a 24 hour per day, seven day per week basis. Further, the Department shall, subject to appropriation, develop a coordinated system of Protective Services for Elders suffering from a Reportable Condition(s) pursuant to M.G.L. c. 19A, § 16.

(2) Subject to appropriation, the responsibilities of the Department shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) Create and maintain the operational ability to receive reports of Abuse of Elders on a 24 hour per day, seven day per week basis;

(b) Designate, re-designate and terminate Protective Services Agencies;

(c) Coordinate and manage the Protective Services Program;

(d) Adopt rules and regulations for the Protective Services Program;

(e) Monitor the effectiveness of the Protective Services Program and conduct evaluative research about it;

(f) Utilize grants from federal, state, and other public and private sources to support the Protective Services Program;

(g) Receive reports of Abuse of Elders and refer such reports to Protective Services Agencies for screening, Investigation, and implementation of a Service Plan, where appropriate;

(h) Seek Protective Orders, as appropriate, in accordance with 651 CMR 5.16 and 5.17;

(i) Contract with Protective Services Agencies and other organizations and individuals, as appropriate, to implement the Protective Services Program;

(j) Appoint Department regional managers who are responsible for program development, monitoring, technical assistance, training, and clinical consultation;

(k) Publicize and provide education to statewide and national organizations regarding the Protective Services Program;

(l) Perform all other functions necessary for the administration of the Protective Services Program.

Notes

651 CMR, § 5.03

Amended by Mass Register Issue 1330, eff. 1/13/2017.