Elder Abuse Proposal Receives First Hearing in Legislature

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A bill that would make it a crime to emotionally or psychologically abuse an elderly person and largely bar felons from being guardians and conservators has had its first legislative hearing.

The Senate Judiciary Committee delayed a vote on the proposal Tuesday. It's expected to advance easily.

A group of officials and experts that studied the abuse of the elderly put forward the wide-ranging measure, which has the backing of Gov. Dennis Daugaard and the chief justice of the state Supreme Court.

The bill would create an avenue for a vulnerable adult to secure protection orders and provide the ability to recover damages from exploitation.

Republican Sen. David Novstrup pushed the legislation establishing the study committee last session. He says the bill is necessary to ensure the elderly are protected.

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