Legislation to Protect our Seniors

August 8, 2023

I wanted to take a moment to update you on the recent legislative session and the measures we have taken to protect and support our seniors in the state. 

As the elderly population continues to grow, so does the unfortunate rise in scam attempts targeting this community. In response, I was proud to support the passage of PA 23-161, also known as, "An Act Concerning Financial Exploitation of Senior Citizens," to help shield our older residents. 

Starting July 1, 2024, banks and credit unions will have the power to temporarily suspend or hold transactions involving an account of an adult over the age of 60 if there is a reasonable suspicion of financial exploitation for up to 45 days.

Protecting our Senior

In addition to this important legislation, I am pleased to share with you some of the highlights of other aging bills that were successfully passed this year: 

  • Established a new coordinator of state services for people with dementia
  • Strengthened patient's involvement in their homemaker care plans and streamlined the process for filing complaints
  • Expanded eligibility for seniors to participate in adult day services (serving those with early onset dementia)
  • Increased funding for elderly nutrition and Meals on Wheels
  • Required homemaker companion companies to provide notice to their clients before they abruptly close and prohibited any increases in rates without at least 60-day notice

These legislative initiatives reflect our commitment to safeguarding the well-being and interests of our seniors. We will continue working tirelessly to create an environment that supports and protects individuals in the twilight years of their lives.