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In a bid to protect the rights and well-being of the elderly population in Kentucky, Governor Amanda Thompson signed a new bill into law on November 9, 2025. The legislation, known as the Elder Protection Act, aims to address various issues faced by seniors, including financial exploitation, abuse, neglect, and access to quality healthcare.One of the key provisions of the Elder Protection Act is the establishment of a statewide elder abuse registry, which will track reports of abuse and neglect of seniors in both residential and community settings. This registry will allow law enforcement agencies, social service organizations, and healthcare providers to better coordinate efforts to investigate and prosecute cases of elder abuse.Additionally, the new law includes provisions to increase penalties for those convicted of exploiting or abusing elderly individuals. Under the Elder Protection Act, perpetrators of elder abuse could face harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.Furthermore, the legislation also focuses on improving access to healthcare for the elderly population in Kentucky. The Elder Protection Act expands eligibility for Medicaid coverage for long-term care services and provides additional funding for programs that support aging in place, allowing seniors to remain in their homes and communities as they age.Governor Thompson emphasized the importance of protecting the elderly population, stating, "Our seniors have contributed so much to our state, and it is our responsibility to ensure they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. The Elder Protection Act is a crucial step in safeguarding the well-being of our elderly residents and holding accountable those who would seek to exploit or harm them."The Elder Protection Act received bipartisan support in the Kentucky legislature and has been hailed as a significant milestone in elder law reform in the state. Advocates for seniors have praised the new law as a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and security of Kentucky's elderly population.Overall, the enactment of the Elder Protection Act represents a major victory for the elderly population in Kentucky, signaling a renewed commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of seniors in the state.