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Bill

S 851

Protection from Financial Exploitation

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Thomas Alexander and 2 co-sponsors

S 851 creates legal protections, reporting requirements, and penalties for financial exploitation of vulnerable South Carolina residents, particularly elderly and disabled individuals.

Effective date 05/19/26
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 851

Legislative bill overview

S 851 establishes legal protections and remedies for individuals experiencing financial exploitation, particularly vulnerable populations like elderly persons and those with disabilities. The bill creates mechanisms for reporting, investigation, and civil/criminal penalties against perpetrators of financial abuse.

Why is this important

Financial exploitation of vulnerable adults costs victims billions annually and often goes unreported due to shame, isolation, or cognitive impairment. This legislation provides explicit legal frameworks and enforcement tools that currently may not exist comprehensively in South Carolina law, potentially preventing abuse and enabling restitution for victims.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining exploitation scope: Questions about where legitimate financial decision-making ends and exploitation begins—particularly regarding family members' financial involvement in relatives' affairs
  • Reporting requirements: Potential tension between mandatory reporting duties (which protect victims) and privacy concerns, especially regarding which professionals must report
  • Resource allocation: Implementation requires funding for investigation, prosecution, and victim services; unclear whether adequate budget exists
  • Due process concerns: Balancing rapid intervention to protect vulnerable persons against ensuring accused individuals receive fair legal procedures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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