§ 42-9.2-1 - Legislative findings. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 42-9.2-1

   § 42-9.2-1  Legislative findings. –The general assembly finds and recognizes that:

   (1) The proportion of Rhode Island's population that is sixty(60) years or older will dramatically increase in the next thirty (30) years.

   (2) Elder abuse, neglect and exploitation have no boundaries,and cross all racial, socio-economic, gender and geographic lines.

   (3) The federal government or congress has been slow to enactlegislation to respond to the needs of victims of elder abuse, neglect andexploitation or to undertake prevention efforts.

   (4) All citizens of Rhode Island should be protected fromelder abuse, neglect and exploitation.

   (5) That the public will benefit from a coordinated,multi-agency effort to ensure that the policy goals and laws established toprotect Rhode Island's seniors from elder abuse, neglect and exploitation areachieved and enforced.

   (6) In order to protect the public safety, health and welfareof Rhode Island's elder population, the general assembly finds it necessary toestablish and fund an elder justice prosecution unit within the department ofattorney general.