Missouri Attorney General Advocates Tougher Abuse and Neglect Reporting Laws
In the wake of the Penn State child sex abuse scandal, Missouri’s attorney general has stated that he wants to see Missouri join the 18 other U.S. states that require any person to report to authorities if he or she suspects a child, patient, elderly person, or other vulnerable person is being abused or neglected, according to a recent article in the Southeast Missourian.
Currently, only certain professionals - like doctors and teachers - are required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect to the authorities. While other Missourians may report their suspicions if they have them, they are not required to do so. The Attorney General, however, believes that the law should be broadened to require reporting regardless of one’s profession or relationship to the person who may be suffering abuse or neglect.
Proponents of the change say it will make vulnerable people safer, including children and elderly persons facing Missouri nursing home abuse or neglect. Those who are against it, however, say that required reporting will not bring more cases of abuse or neglect to light, and may waste police resources tracking down everyone who “should” have said something.
Neglect in nursing homes is far too common, and the results can be devastating. If you believe someone you love is suffering from nursing home abuse or neglect, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled St. Louis nursing home neglect attorney. At Page Law, we will help protect you and your loved one’s legal rights and options at every step, from contacting the authorities to seeking compensation for any injuries suffered. For a free and confidential consultation, call us today at (314) 322-8515.



