On February 17, 2026, Maine lawmakers passed a series of bills aimed at enhancing protections for the state's growing population of senior citizens. The new legislation, collectively known as the Maine Elder Law Act, addresses a range of issues affecting older adults, including financial exploitation, guardianship abuse, and access to affordable long-term care.One key component of the Elder Law Act is the establishment of a statewide registry for powers of attorney. This registry will help prevent elder abuse by allowing financial institutions and other third parties to verify the validity of a power of attorney document before honoring it. This will provide an additional layer of protection for vulnerable seniors who may be at risk of having their assets mismanaged or stolen by unscrupulous individuals.Additionally, the Elder Law Act includes provisions aimed at cracking down on guardianship abuse. Under the new legislation, guardians will be required to undergo background checks and receive training on their duties and responsibilities. The law also establishes a system for monitoring guardianship cases to ensure that seniors are not being exploited or neglected by their court-appointed guardians.Another key aspect of the Elder Law Act is the expansion of Medicaid eligibility for long-term care services. The legislation increases the income and asset limits for seniors seeking assistance with nursing home care or in-home services, making it easier for older adults to access the care they need without depleting their life savings.In a statement following the passage of the Elder Law Act, Governor Janet Mills praised the new legislation as a significant step forward in protecting Maine's senior citizens. "Our older adults deserve to age with dignity and respect, free from exploitation and abuse," Governor Mills said. "The Maine Elder Law Act will help ensure that our state's seniors are able to access the care and support they need to live their lives to the fullest."Overall, the Maine Elder Law Act represents a comprehensive effort to strengthen protections for elderly residents and improve their quality of life. By addressing issues such as financial exploitation, guardianship abuse, and access to long-term care, the new legislation signals a commitment to promoting the well-being of Maine's aging population for years to come.