From Wall Street to Main Street, brokers and legislators are working to prevent cases of financial abuse against the elderly from occurring. Joining in the effort, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D – Chicago) is sponsoring two pieces of legislation that would require those aware of abuse against the disabled and elderly communities to report that abuse to the proper authorities.

“Protecting seniors from financial abuse is a significant concern for our state and deserves undivided attention,” said State Senator Hunter (D-Chicago), chair of the Illinois Human Services Committee. “Banks and elderly care facilities can work together by keeping an eye out for financial abuse, reporting it and preventing these abusive employees with questionable records from working with seniors in future.”

Hunter sponsored Senate Bill 227, a measure requiring the Department of Human Services’ Inspector General to report health care workers with a past of financial exploitation to the Department of Human Service’s health care registry.

Senate Bill 799 requires employees of financial institutions who have personal interactions with customers to report suspected cases of abuse.

Both initiatives are under consideration in the Senate.