In a move to prioritize the well-being and safety of Vermont's aging population, the state legislature unanimously passed new elder law legislation on February 17, 2026. The new laws aim to provide increased protections for older adults in areas such as financial exploitation, healthcare decision-making, and guardianship.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the establishment of a statewide Elder Financial Exploitation Prevention Task Force. This task force will work to educate older adults and their caregivers about common scams and methods used by con artists to exploit vulnerable individuals. Additionally, the task force will collaborate with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of elder financial abuse.Another important aspect of the new legislation is the expansion of legal options for healthcare decision-making. Under the new laws, older adults will have the ability to designate a healthcare proxy, who can make medical decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated. This provision aims to ensure that older adults' wishes are respected and upheld, even if they are unable to communicate their preferences themselves.Furthermore, the new legislation strengthens protections for older adults in guardianship proceedings. The laws now require that guardians regularly report to the court on the care and well-being of the individual under their care. This increased oversight aims to prevent cases of elder abuse and neglect by holding guardians accountable for their actions.Advocates for older adults have praised the new legislation as a significant step forward in protecting the rights and dignity of Vermont's aging population. They believe that these laws will help to prevent elder abuse, financial exploitation, and other forms of harm that older adults may face as they age.Overall, the new elder law legislation in Vermont marks a significant milestone in the state's commitment to promoting the well-being and safety of older adults. By enacting these laws, Vermont is sending a strong message that elder abuse and exploitation will not be tolerated, and that older adults deserve to age with dignity and respect.