How Does this New Federal Law Help the Elderly?

A new law was passed to address elder abuse.

Do you have an elderly loved one?

Are you considered a senior citizen or do you care about someone who is?

If so, Senate Bill 178 is good news for you.

According to a recent iAdvance Senior Care article titled “New elder abuse protections law,” the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act provides a more resources and accountability to protecting seniors from abuses.

The Act also provides justice for victims.

What exactly does this new law do?

It gives the federal government the ability to investigate and prosecute corrupt court-appointed guardians or conservators in each state.

The Act targets those who scam the elderly via email, while establishing a better system for sharing information between agencies and states.

This information sharing is an important reason for the involvement of the federal government.

How does the new bill help accomplish these goals?

Here are a few of the steps:

1. Elder Justice Coordinators will be designated at the Department of Justice, federal judicial districts and at the Federal Trade Commission.
2. FBI agents will undergo elder specific training.
3. A group will be established to provide advice on policy.
4. The Department of Justice will establish best practices for data gathering and will share its findings on investigations and cases.
5. The Department of Health and Human Services will be required to deliver data and information on cases sent to adult protective services.
6. The Department of Justice will work with the Elder Justice Coordinating Council to provide training for elder abuse issues.
7. Telemarketing fraud, email fraud, and healthcare fraud now have greater penalties.

Although you may not see changes overnight, the Act will help provide better protections for aging Americans.

Remember: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When making your financial, tax and estate plans, do not go it alone. Be sure to engage competent professional counsel.

For more information about estate planning in Overland Park, KS (and throughout the rest of Kansas and Missouri), visit our estate planning website and be sure to subscribe to our complimentary estate planning e-newsletter while you are there.

Reference: iAdvance Senior Care (October 26, 2017) “New elder abuse protections law”