A bill written by State Senator Andre Jacque of De Pere which aims to help adults at risk has passed its first hurdle.
The bill, which was co-authored by Representative Chuck Wichgers of Muskego, has cleared the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety on a 6-1 bi-partisan vote.
Senator Jacque explained that the proposal will “enhance our adults-at-risk legal framework by adding more protections that will help ensure safe, fulfilling lives for the defenseless ones among us.”
He cited reports that claim that adults with disabilities are seven times more likely to be the victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and Senate Bill 388 would increase the penalties for those who take advantage of those deemed at risk.
The measure must now pass the full Senate and Assembly and be signed by the Governor to become law.
