D.__A person described as a dependent person in Title 17-A, section 555.

Sec. 3. 22 MRSA §3473, as amended by PL 1991, c. 711, §§2 to 4, is further amended to read:

§3473. Authorizations

1. General. The department shall act to:

A. Protect abused, neglected or exploited incapacitated adults and dependent vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect or exploitation and protect incapacitated adults and dependent vulnerable adults in circumstances which that present a substantial risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation;

B. Prevent abuse, neglect or exploitation of incapacitated adults and vulnerable adults;

C. Enhance the welfare of these incapacitated adults and dependent vulnerable adults; and

D. Promote self-care wherever possible.

2. Reports. The department shall:

A. Receive, promptly investigate and determine the validity of reports of alleged abuse, neglect or exploitation or the substantial risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation;

B. Take appropriate action, including providing or arranging for the provision of appropriate services and making referrals to law enforcement; and

C. Petition for guardianship or a protective order under Title 18-A, Article 5, when all less restrictive alternatives have been tried and have failed to protect the incapacitated adult.

3. Appearance of designated employees in Probate Court. The commissioner may designate employees of the department to represent the department in Probate Court in:

A. Matters relating to the performance of duties in uncontested guardianship, or conservatorship or termination of guardianship or conservatorship proceedings; and