Led by Representatives Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.) and Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), H.R. 2922, the Elder Abuse Protection Act, was reported unanimously out of the House Judiciary Committee today and now heads to the House floor for a vote.
Spartz
“I greatly appreciate Rep. Garcia’s and the committee’s work in advancing this important legislation,” Rep. Spartz said. “The pandemic was particularly difficult for our seniors and more vulnerable populations as criminals used it as an opportunity to prey on them through numerous fraudulent efforts. I will continue to advocate for our seniors and make sure criminals and fraudsters are held accountable.”
The bill makes permanent the Elder Justice Initiative (EJI) within the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice. The EJI will focus on criminal enforcement and public engagement efforts to combat abuse, neglect, and financial fraud scams that target the elderly. The bill also makes permanent a hotline to address calls from the public concerning elder abuse and elder justice. The National Elder Fraud Hotline can currently be reached at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311.
Background
The EJI was established by the Trump Administration. Through this initiative, the Trump Administration charged nearly 1,000 defendants with fraud, totaling over $2.2 billion.
The Elder Abuse Protection Act is endorsed by the Center for Medicare Advocacy; Social Security Works, Elder Justice Coalition; National Council on Aging; the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees; and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.
Click here to read the full text of the bill.