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On November 16, 2025, the Indiana legislature passed a landmark bill aimed at strengthening elder law protections in the state. The bill, known as the Elder Justice Act, is designed to enhance safeguards for elderly individuals against abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.Under the new law, mandatory reporting requirements for elder abuse will be expanded to include a wider range of individuals, including healthcare providers, social workers, and law enforcement officers. This will help ensure that cases of elder abuse are detected and addressed in a timely manner.In addition, the Elder Justice Act will establish a statewide registry of individuals convicted of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. This registry will serve as a valuable tool for law enforcement and healthcare providers to screen potential caregivers and protect vulnerable seniors from harm.Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to strengthen the legal rights of elderly individuals in guardianship proceedings. This will help ensure that seniors are not stripped of their autonomy and are able to make decisions about their own care and finances to the greatest extent possible.Indiana Governor, Samantha Johnson, praised the passage of the Elder Justice Act, calling it a major step forward in protecting the state's elderly population. "Our seniors deserve to age with dignity and respect, free from abuse and exploitation," Governor Johnson said. "This legislation will help ensure that they receive the care and protection they deserve."The Elder Justice Act is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of elderly individuals across Indiana. Supporters of the bill hope that it will serve as a model for other states to follow in bolstering protections for seniors.