Legislation To Protect Elderly From Abuse And Exploitation

Press Release, Aug 29, 2006

Chicago,IL—U.S. Representative Rahm Emanuel (D-IL) and Mayor Richard M. Daley held a press conference at the Northeast Levy Senior Center to discuss the Elder Justice Act (H.R. 4993), the first comprehensive federal effort to address and prevent elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. Emanuel's Elder Justice Act aims to make communities safer for older Americans by developing new strategies and requiring prompt reporting of crimes in nursing homes.

“Every year, millions of American seniors are victims of abuse and neglect.  This bill will bring focus to the problem of elder abuse and elevate it to the same level as other family violence issues, like domestic violence and child abuse,” said Rep. Emanuel. “Elder abuse remains under-researched, under-reported, under-funded and under-prosecuted.”

“I commend Congressman Emanuel for introducing this legislation,” said Daley. “Our seniors are very important to our city. They have raised their families, cared for their neighborhoods, supported our schools, participated in our community organizations and set a fine example for the generations that follow. We want them to stay in Chicago, and we want them to age safely and with dignity.”

The Elder Justice Act will provide victim assistance, improved long-term care and support for at-risk elders.  In addition, this legislation will provide resources to states for abuse prevention and improved prosecution for the mistreatment of older Americans. Read more at house.gov