South Central PA News

State Representatives Liz Hanbidge and Paul Schemel have successfully worked together to pass House Bill 1760, which includes provisions to protect seniors from abuse. The bill updates Pennsylvania's Slayer Statute, a law that prevents individuals from profiting off the unlawful killing of another person in order to acquire property or benefits. The new legislation expands the statute to also bar convicted elder abusers from benefiting from their victims' estates.

"Expanding the Slayer Statute to encompass elder abusers is a profound way to protect Pennsylvania's seniors," said Rep. Hanbidge. "House Bill 1760 would help ensure a future where the rights of Pennsylvania elders are safeguarded, and wrongdoers are prevented from benefiting from abusing seniors."

Rep. Schemel echoed this sentiment, stating, "No one who commits a crime against an individual should profit from that victim's estate. This legislation further clarifies existing statute and amends into it protection for our elders and ensures those who abuse them receive no benefit."

The legislators emphasized that seniors still have the power to transfer their personal belongings as they wish after death. The bill specifically targets post-conviction reconciliation or ratification, which would allow elder abusers to become beneficiaries of a decedent's estate.

House Bill 1760 has now passed the House and will be considered in the Senate. This bipartisan effort aims to protect the dignity and well-being of Pennsylvania's seniors, while ensuring that those who commit crimes against them do not reap any benefits from their actions.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.repschemel.com/News/33285/Latest-News/Schemel,-Hanbidge-Legislation-to-Protect-Seniors-from-Abuse-Passed-by-the-House