The proposed bill establishes an Elder Justice Unit within the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) and an Elder Abuse Task Force within the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). The Elder Justice Unit will focus on investigating and prosecuting crimes against elderly individuals, while the Elder Abuse Task Force will conduct statewide investigations in collaboration with the unit. The task force will have the authority to request assistance from various agencies, enter into agreements with other states, and appoint necessary personnel to fulfill its duties. The bill also includes amendments to existing statutes, notably replacing gender-specific language by changing references from "he" to "the Chief State's Attorney" to promote inclusivity.

The implementation of these units is projected to incur significant costs, estimated between $934,975 to $1,209,482 in FY 26 and $1,194,967 to $1,550,976 in FY 27, primarily funded through the General Fund. This includes the addition of eight new positions within the DCJ and the hiring of additional personnel for the task force, along with associated costs for salaries, office equipment, and ongoing expenses. The bill includes technical and conforming changes and is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

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