I'm happy to report that there is some good news coming out of Colorado in regards to legislation dealing with elder abuse.
On March 27th, 2012, the Colorado Senate approved Senate Bill 78. This bill will increase protection for at-risk adults and the elderly by establishing an Elder Abuse Task Force. This force will make recommendations that will help to create a system to handle the mandatory reporting of elder abuse by 2013. And, amazing how this hasn't been a previous requirement by law, the bill will now require all care givers of at-risk adults to undergo a complete criminal background check.
The task force will be comprised of many professionals in the fields of healthcare, social services and law enforcement. In addition to their duties of creating a reporting system they will also review funding options for the system, what services can be provided and what criminal penalties can be leveraged on an elder abuser.
This bill was sponsored by Senator Evie Hudak (D-Westminister) and is now on it's way to the House of Representatives.
As always, if you suspect elder abuse please contact your local authorities on the matter, and consult with a professional Attorney for Elder Abuse.
*This blog entry was not written by an Attorney and should not be constituted as professional legal advice.