Senator Bolick Advances Legislation to Protect Vulnerable Adults from Financial Exploitation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Senator Shawnna Bolick is advancing legislation aimed at strengthening protections for vulnerable adults and ensuring accountability for those who exploit trust for personal gain. This bill comes in response to increasing concerns over financial abuse targeting seniors and other at-risk individuals, reinforcing Arizona's commitment to safeguarding those who are least able to protect themselves.
SB 1512 updates state law to better reflect the realities of financial exploitation. It clarifies who qualifies as a vulnerable adult and expands the definition to include certain seniors who may be at increased risk due to factors such as loss, illness, isolation, or dependence on others for care or financial management. The bill also specifies that a "position of trust" is not limited to formal titles; it can include anyone who has developed a relationship of reliance where a vulnerable adult reasonably expects that person to act in their best interests. Theft committed in such circumstances remains subject to existing felony penalties, and the legislation does not impose any fiscal impact on the state.
"Financial exploitation often occurs not at the hands of strangers, but from those who are trusted, relied upon, and granted access during moments of vulnerability," stated Senator Bolick. "This bill aims to strengthen the law in response to the experiences of too many families: loss, illness, isolation, and dependency can render individuals targets for abuse. By clearly defining who is protected and who is held accountable, we are sending a strong message that Arizona will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable adults. Those who misuse their positions of trust will be held responsible."
SB 1512 passed out of the Senate Judiciary & Elections Committee and heads to the Senate Floor for a full vote.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus