On August 1, 2025, Texas lawmakers made significant strides in improving protections for the state's elderly population by passing new legislation aimed at addressing key issues in elder law. The Texas Elder Law Protection Act, which was signed into law by Governor Sarah Adams earlier this week, is set to provide enhanced safeguards for vulnerable older adults and strengthen enforcement mechanisms for elder abuse and neglect.The new law includes provisions that expand the definition of elder abuse to encompass not only physical harm, but also emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Under the legislation, caregivers, family members, and healthcare providers are required to report suspected cases of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities, with penalties in place for those who fail to do so.Furthermore, the Texas Elder Law Protection Act establishes a dedicated task force to investigate and prosecute cases of elder abuse, with a focus on holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring justice for victims. The task force will also work to provide support services for older adults who have been victimized, including legal assistance and counseling.In addition to strengthening protections against elder abuse, the new law aims to improve access to legal resources for older Texans. The Texas Elder Law Protection Act includes provisions for the creation of a statewide network of legal aid clinics and services tailored specifically to the needs of older adults, including assistance with estate planning, guardianship issues, and long-term care planning.Governor Adams hailed the passage of the Texas Elder Law Protection Act as a crucial step towards upholding the rights and dignity of older adults in the state. "Our elderly population deserves to be treated with respect and compassion," she stated. "This new legislation sends a clear message that Texas is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our older residents."Advocates for elder rights have praised the new law as a landmark achievement in the fight against elder abuse and neglect. "The Texas Elder Law Protection Act represents a significant victory for our state's elderly population," said Maria Rodriguez, founder of the Texas Elder Rights Coalition. "This legislation will help to prevent abuse, hold perpetrators accountable, and provide crucial support services for older Texans in need."As the Texas Elder Law Protection Act goes into effect, lawmakers and advocates alike are hopeful that it will serve as a model for other states seeking to strengthen protections for older adults and combat elder abuse on a national scale.