[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 128 (Thursday, October 3, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S9899]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     THE ELDER JUSTICE ACT OF 2002

  Mr. BURNS. Mr. President, I rise today to support a bipartisan bill 
to end the longstanding and pervasive problem of elder abuse, the Elder 
Justice Act of 2002. To care for the aging population in this Nation 
has been pushed aside for too long. This comprehensive measure 
centralizes the oversight of elder justice in one Federal office; all 
while listening to the differing needs of States and localities. To 
take proactive steps to prevent abuse from occurring, this bill calls 
for widespread training and maintenance of a national clearinghouse of 
information. This includes studies, statistics, and a broad review of 
State practices to ensure adequate protection of our aging population. 
This bill also deals with abuse after it has occurred, and 
significantly reforms the security, prosecution, and safe-havens 
available for seniors.
  Most importantly, this bill sets an important precedent: the 
unspeakable and innumerable accounts of violence against seniors will 
finally have a long-overdue response from the U.S. Senate. Once again, 
I appreciate the work and leadership of Senators Breaux and Hatch, and 
I am proud to join as a cosponsor of this legislation.

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