Resolution for the Elder Justice Act

Whereas, over 76,000,000 baby boomers are approaching their golden years and the potential for abuse, neglect, and exploitation of these elderly Americans will increase as well,

Whereas, elder abuse has no boundaries as it crosses all racial, social, and gender lines. It is estimated that 71,400,000 citizens are abused every single year with this number only set to increase as the aging population increases,

Whereas, the Federal Government has enacted laws on child abuse and domestic violence which also fund victims’ services and shelters, it has yet to enact comparable laws on elder abuse. Furthermore, our domestic violence and child abuse programs have shown that effective programs must include laws which combine public health, social service, and law enforcement approaches.

Whereas, the Federal Government played a vital role in developing these child abuse and domestic violence programs, it should do the same for our vulnerable elders.  It should be working to coordinate, develop and share knowledge and resources among all levels of government and communities to promote elder justice.  The federal government must push an agenda which integrates health, legal, and social service efforts; emphasizes the need for prevention, investigation, and prosecution of elder abuse at all levels of government; ensures that personnel have the training and resources to properly treat, assess, provide services, and protect our elders,

Whereas, the Fraternal Order of Eagles has been instrumental in other social justice legislation such as Jobs after 40, Old Age Pensions and Medicare and there have been bills introduced in congress every year since 2002 to amend the Social Security Act, a great victory for this county, its citizens and the Fraternal Order of Eagles,

Therefore be it resolved, in an effort to further champion social legislation for our fellow Americans this Fraternal Order of Eagles Grand Auxiliary in convention assembled wishes to support wholeheartedly Senate Bill 1070 and House Bill 1783 now put before the United States Senate and House of Representatives respectively. These bills are sponsored by Senators Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Blanch Lincoln (D-Ark) and Representatives Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill) and Peter King (R-NY).  We respectfully ask our Aerie brothers to join us in this resolution and further ask that all members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles contact their congressional representatives and demand their support for this important legislation that has long been overlooked.