The state Assembly's Public Safety Committee on Tuesday approved a plan by Sen. Jenny Oropeza that would strengthen fines and other penalties against those who physically abuse senior citizens.
Senate Bill 18 won bipartisan support from the committee, according to Ray Sotero, spokesman for the Long Beach Democrat.
The bill would increase fines for those who abuse dependent adults and seniors ages 65 and older.
"Elder abuse is a hidden, pervasive and deadly crime where a shocking 84 percent of 5 million cases go unreported nationwide," Oropeza said in a statement issued after the hearing. "As California will have more than 9 million aged residents by 2020, SB 18 would shine light on a growing problem."
SB 18, according to Sotero's news release, would:
· Increase from $6,000 to $10,000 fines for those found guilty of placing an elder or dependent adult in situations where great bodily harm or death is likely.
· Increase from $2,000 to $5,000 the fine for those found guilty of placing an elder or dependent adult in dangerous situations not likely to cause death or serious bodily injury.
Supporters of SB 18 include the California District Attorneys Association, the California State Sheriffs Association, the California Commission on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association.
SB 18 requires Assembly approval as well. The state's lower house has not scheduled a hearing.
