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Rep. Kahle supports plan better protecting Michigan’s vulnerable seniors from abuse and exploitation
RELEASE|February 25, 2020

Rep. Bronna Kahle today voted to approve a bipartisan plan designed to better protect vulnerable seniors from abuse, neglect and exploitation.


The legislation clarifies and strengthens state law to provide more protections for elders 80 and older – including stiffer penalties for physical abuse and financial exploitation. The plan includes more specific definitions of certain crimes to help aid prosecution.


“As Michigan’s population continues to age, we must ensure our state laws protecting older adults are comprehensive and clear, with strong consequences for those who break them,” said Kahle, who served as director of the Adrian Senior Center before her election to the state Legislature. “I am pleased to support these reforms that will keep our families, friends and neighbors safer and more secure for years to come.”


Michigan has one of the oldest populations in the nation. According to information from the Aging and Adult Services Agency, 1 in 10 older adults in Michigan are victims of elder abuse.


The Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan estimates up to 125,000 older adults are victims of abuse, neglect or exploitation every year.


Under the legislation approved by the House, 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.


“Protecting our most vulnerable residents – including seniors — is and always will be a top priority,” Kahle said. “I will continue to promote solutions to combat elder abuse in every form – physical, verbal, psychological and financial.”


The plan now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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