The House 154-0, Senate 40-0, approved a law that established a registry that identifies individuals who have been found to have committed abuse against persons with disabilities. The measure was filed by Sen. Mike Moore (D-Millbury) at the request of a constituent who is the mother of Nicky, an intellectually disabled and non-verbal individual.

Nicky had been inappropriately restrained and struck multiple times by her caretaker. Under current law, unless the offender is criminally convicted, no system exists to identify caretakers and prevent them from finding employment with another provider licensed by the state.

“Enacting this registry will help disrupt a cycle of abuse of individuals with disabilities and put in place common-sense protections that families in the commonwealth deserve,” said Sen. Moore. “There are clear benefits to screening prospective employees who intend to work within the licensed caretaker field.”