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In response to the growing population of elderly residents in Delaware, the state legislature has passed new elder law legislation aimed at better protecting and advocating for the rights of seniors. The bill, signed into law by Governor John Smith on Monday, April 11, 2026, includes a range of measures to address issues such as financial exploitation, long-term care, and guardianship.One key aspect of the new legislation is the establishment of a registry for power of attorney documents. This registry will allow seniors to securely file their power of attorney documents with the state, providing an additional layer of protection against fraud and exploitation. The registry will also help ensure that powers of attorney are respected and followed by all relevant parties.Additionally, the new law strengthens protections against financial exploitation of seniors. Under the legislation, financial institutions are now required to report suspected cases of elder financial abuse to the state Department of Justice. This will enable authorities to investigate and take action against those who prey on vulnerable seniors for financial gain.The legislation also addresses issues related to long-term care for seniors. One provision of the law requires long-term care facilities to provide residents with clear information about their rights and options for care. This includes information about alternative housing options, financial assistance, and legal resources available to seniors in need of long-term care.Another important aspect of the new legislation is the establishment of a task force on guardianship reform. This task force will be responsible for reviewing current guardianship laws and practices in Delaware and making recommendations for improvements to better protect the rights and interests of seniors under guardianship.Overall, the new elder law legislation represents a significant step forward in the protection of Delaware's elderly population. By strengthening legal protections against financial exploitation, improving access to long-term care services, and taking steps to reform guardianship practices, the state is working to ensure that seniors are able to age with dignity and security.