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In a landmark decision, the Oregon Legislature passed a bill on November 19, 2025, aimed at strengthening elder law protections in the state. The bill, known as the Elder Protection Act, was overwhelmingly supported by legislators on both sides of the aisle and is being hailed as a significant step forward in safeguarding the rights and well-being of elderly Oregonians.The Elder Protection Act includes several key provisions that will help to address the growing issue of elder abuse and exploitation in the state. One of the most notable provisions of the bill is the establishment of a dedicated Elder Protection Unit within the Oregon Department of Human Services. This unit will be responsible for investigating reports of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, as well as coordinating with law enforcement agencies to hold perpetrators accountable.In addition to creating the Elder Protection Unit, the bill also includes provisions to strengthen legal remedies for elder abuse victims. Under the new law, victims of elder abuse will have the right to seek civil damages against their abusers, as well as enhanced criminal penalties for those found guilty of exploiting or neglecting elderly individuals.State Senator Jane Smith, who co-sponsored the bill, spoke passionately about the importance of protecting Oregon's elderly population. "Elder abuse is a serious and under-reported problem in our state, and it's time that we take decisive action to address it," Senator Smith said. "This bill will provide much-needed resources and support for those who have been victimized, and send a strong message that elder abuse will not be tolerated in Oregon."The Elder Protection Act has received widespread support from advocacy groups, legal professionals, and elder care providers across the state. Jenny Liu, executive director of the Oregon Elder Rights Coalition, praised the bill as a critical step towards ensuring the safety and dignity of elderly Oregonians. "We are thrilled to see the legislature take action to protect our most vulnerable citizens," Liu said. "This bill will help to hold abusers accountable and provide much-needed support for elder abuse victims."With the passage of the Elder Protection Act, Oregon joins a growing number of states that are prioritizing the protection of their elderly populations. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have a significant impact on the state's efforts to combat elder abuse and exploitation.