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House approves Wozniak’s plan combatting elder abuse, increasing protections for seniors
RELEASE|February 25, 2020
Contact: Doug Wozniak

The Michigan House today overwhelmingly approved state Rep. Doug Wozniak’s plan to combat elder abuse and establish increased protections for Michigan’s senior population.


Wozniak, of Shelby Township, said elder abuse is a serious crime that is becoming more common. The Aging and Adult Services Agency reports that one in 10 older adults in Michigan is a victim of elder abuse. The additional protections and increased criminal penalties included in the bipartisan package aims to make people think twice before targeting or taking advantage of older adults.


“It couldn’t be more important we address the issue of elder abuse head on and stand up for seniors who are more susceptible to becoming victims of either verbal, psychological or financial abuse,” Wozniak said. “By installing stronger protections for seniors and exploring stricter penalties for those who commit elder abuse, Michigan is taking much-needed action to combat this very serious issue.”


The eight-bill plan would add legal protections for adults age 80 and older and establish increased criminal penalties for individuals who financially or physically abuse vulnerable and elder adults.


“People who abuse members of our aging population are reprehensible and should be properly punished for their actions,” Wozniak said. “We’re making it very clear to those who are contemplating whether or not to target Michigan seniors.”


Under this proposal, assaulting a senior could result in up to 25 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines while embezzling could result in up to 20 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines, depending on the severity of the crime.


The plan now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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