North Carolina bill would fund at least 25 county elder-protection workers

The bill would set aside $2,178,000 in recurring state funds for at least 25 county Adult Protective Services workers statewide. The funds would go to county departments of social services selected by the Division of Social Services. The Division of Social Services, consulting with county social services directors, would distribute the funds to counties with the greatest need. It would consider case numbers, staffing needs, the population age 65 or older, and report volume. Counties could use the funds only for salaries, benefits, and related expenses for the workers, and could not use them to replace other staff funding. The act would take effect July 1, 2026. The recurring funds would begin in the 2026–2027 fiscal year, when the statewide worker total would increase by at least 25.