New legislation proposed to protect older LGBTQ+ adults in the US from abuse

Two Democratic lawmakers have stepped forward with a proposal aiming to tackle injustices faced by older adults within the LGBTQ+ community in the United States. Congressmember Angie Craig of Minnesota, who is openly lesbian, and New Jersey’s Josh Gottheimer are spearheading this initiative with the introduction of the Elder Pride Protection Act.

The newly proposed legislation seeks to establish a dedicated task force within the Department of Justice. This task force would be responsible for addressing and mitigating abuse against LGBTQ+ seniors, with a comprehensive approach that spans national, state, and local levels.

The primary goal of the Elder Pride Protection Act is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of older LGBTQ adults, a demographic that continues to experience unique and often severe challenges. By forming this task force, Craig and Gottheimer aim to create a more structured and effective response mechanism to incidents of abuse, discrimination, and neglect that these individuals may encounter.

As abuse targeting LGBTQ+ older adults persists as an underreported and less understood issue, the creation of this task force could bring much-needed attention and resources to combat it. The task force would comprise experts and officials from various sectors to develop strategies and policies, coordinate with local agencies, and provide support and education to both the public and service providers.

Craig and Gottheimer’s initiative arrives at a critical time, highlighting the ongoing need for protective measures for vulnerable populations within the LGBTQ+ community.