The proposed bill aims to enhance the enforcement of elder abuse laws by establishing an Elder Justice Unit within the Division of Criminal Justice and an Elder Abuse Task Force within the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. The Elder Justice Unit will focus on investigating and prosecuting crimes against elderly individuals, while the Elder Abuse Task Force will conduct investigations and collaborate with various agencies, including federal, state, and local entities. The Chief State's Attorney will oversee the establishment of the Elder Justice Unit, and the bill includes provisions for the appointment of a commanding officer and necessary personnel for the task force.

Key changes in the bill include the insertion of new provisions creating the Elder Justice Unit and the Elder Abuse Task Force, as well as the deletion of gender-specific language regarding the Chief State's Attorney to ensure gender neutrality. The bill also repeals and substitutes existing statutes to incorporate these new units, with an effective date of October 1, 2025. Financial implications indicate a total cost to the General Fund ranging from approximately $934,975 to $1,209,482 in FY 26 and $1,194,967 to $1,550,976 in FY 27, primarily due to the hiring of new personnel and operational expenses. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen the state's response to elder abuse and improve coordination among law enforcement agencies.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 51-279b
AGE Joint Favorable: 51-279b
File No. 200: 51-279b