AARP Praises Enactment of bill creating Task Force on Abuse Against Elderly and Disabled

AARP New Jersey applauds the enactment of legislation which will create the New Jersey Task Force on Abuse Against the Elderly and Disabled. Governor Chris Christie signed the bill on Monday, May 23. 

“AARP applauds Governor Christie for signing this important bill into law,” said AARP New Jersey State Director Stephanie Hunsinger. Hunsinger added that “AARP also commends the hard work of the sponsors and supporters of the New Jersey Task Force on Abuse Against the Elderly and Disabled.”

The New Jersey Task Force on Abuse Against the Elderly and Disabled Force will combine the resources and experiences of a multi-disciplinary task force to develop policy proposals to help examine and combat abuse of our elderly and disabled, including mental, physical, and financial exploitation. One key component of the bill will be to strengthen the investigation and enforcement capabilities of the Office of Adult Protective Services.

“The impact of abusive practices is financially and emotionally devastating to our loved ones who fall victim to them,” continued Hunsinger. “There is also a tremendous burden on the judicial and social services systems to rectify the injustices from such crimes. It is our hope that among the outcomes of the Task Force’s work will be a greater light shined on these injustices, ultimately leading to more prosecutions.” 

AARP will hold a seat on the Task Force, and that seat will be filled by Hunsinger, who was named AARP new Jersey State Director effective May 23^rd.