The Minnesota Vulnerable Adults Act – Minn Stat sections 626.557

Under this law, anyone who has reason to believe that a vulnerable adult is being neglected, abused, or exploited is required to report it to the appropriate authorities. The law also provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for those who make good faith reports.

Neglect is defined as the failure or refusal to provide necessary care, including food, shelter, medical care, and supervision. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Financial exploitation refers to the unauthorized use of a vulnerable adult’s funds or property for personal gain.

The law requires that reports of neglect, abuse, or exploitation be made to the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC) or to local law enforcement. The report should include the name and address of the vulnerable adult, the nature and extent of the alleged abuse or neglect, and any other relevant information. Report suspected maltreatment of a vulnerable adult to the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center at 1-844-880-1574 which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Minnesota encourages good faith reporting of suspected maltreatment of vulnerable adults by any person.

Once a report is received, the appropriate authorities will investigate and take appropriate action to protect the vulnerable adult. This may include removing the adult from the abusive or neglectful situation, providing medical care, or pursuing legal action against the abuser.

This law applies to many of the healthcare licensed facilities in Minnesota. 

DHS offers Online Mandated Reporter Training on the state’s Vulnerable Adult Act, including who is a vulnerable adult, the definitions of maltreatment, and the reporting duties of mandated reporters. It is also available to any interested person.

Additional Resources:

Download Here: Sample Vulnerable Adults Maltreatment Form – Minnesota

• Minnesota Statute 626.557
• Minnesota Statute 626.5571
• Minnesota Statute 626.5572