Virginia allows institutions to refuse transactions if elder exploitation is suspected

State Issues State Legislation Elder Financial Exploitation

On March 18, the Virginia Governor signed HB 1987, which authorizes staff of financial institutions to refuse a transaction, delay a transaction, or refuse to disburse transaction funds if the staff member (i) has a good faith belief that the transaction may involve the financial exploitation of an aged or incapacitated adult; or (ii) files a report or has knowledge that a report has been filed with the responsible local authority that states in good faith that the transaction may involve financial exploitation of an aged or incapacitated adult. Unless authorized by a court, the bill allows the continued refusal for up to 30 days after the date the transaction was initially requested. The financial institution and its staff are immune from civil or criminal liability under the bill, absent gross negligence or willful misconduct. The bill is effective July 1.