Gentile Pushes Bill To Register Abusive Care Providers

SUDBURY, MA — A bill cosponsored by Sudbury state Rep. Carmine Gentile would create a state registry of caretakers accused of abuse against developmentally disabled patients. The bill passed in the state House this week.

The registry would include anyone the state Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DCCP) has confirmed to be abusive toward patients. Employers would have to check the registry before hiring anyone — and anyone on the registry would not be eligible to work in the state, according to the bill.

The DCCP would be able to fine employers who violate the law.

"One young person or adult with severe disabilities being abused by a person hired to assist her is one too many. A young woman and her family whom I met can take some small comfort that her perpetrator will not escape recognition if he applies for similar work when this bill is passed by the Senate and signed by Governor Baker," Gentile said in a statement.

Next, the bill heads to the Senate for approval.