Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2023

Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2023

This bill reauthorizes, provides funding through FY2027 for, and otherwise makes changes to programs that address abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults and adults with disabilities.

Specifically, the bill provides funding for states and localities to enhance adult protective services and long-term care ombudsman programs.

Additionally, the bill modifies an existing long-term care workforce grant program, including by requiring that grant recipients use funds to provide employees with wage subsidies, educational assistance, and access to affordable child care and transportation. Furthermore, the bill establishes new grant programs for states to (1) link health care and social services for older adults and adults with disabilities, including through medical-legal partnerships and legal services hotlines; and (2) prevent and address social isolation among older adults and adults with disabilities.

The bill also provides funding for reporting by the Department of Health and Human Services on the effectiveness of various programs and activities in addressing abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults and adults with disabilities.

Bill 118 hr 2718, also known as the Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to reauthorize and update the Elder Justice Act, which was originally passed in 2010 to address and prevent elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

The Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2023 aims to strengthen protections for older Americans by enhancing the ability of federal agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of elder abuse. The bill also seeks to improve coordination between federal, state, and local agencies in responding to reports of elder abuse, as well as increasing resources for training and education on elder abuse prevention.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to improve data collection on elder abuse cases, enhance the availability of services for victims of elder abuse, and increase penalties for individuals who commit elder abuse. The bill also seeks to promote research on elder abuse and improve the quality of care provided to older Americans in long-term care facilities. Overall, the Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that aims to protect and support older Americans who are vulnerable to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It represents a bipartisan effort to address a critical issue facing our aging population and ensure that older Americans are able to live with dignity and respect.