Two Democratic Warwick lawmakers — Rep. Joseph J. Solomon Jr. and Sen. Mark McKenney — have submitted bills in their respective chambers to establish an office which would focus on protecting the rights of older Rhode Islanders.
The Office of the Elder Advocate would work “holistically across settings” on issues involving “age discrimination, financial exploitation, housing, access to benefits, guardianship and identifying systemic service gaps,” according to the bill text.
“While older adults have become the fastest growing population in Rhode Island, the assistance and aid they receive can vary greatly from agency to agency,” Solomon, who chairs the House Committee on Corporations, said in a statement Tuesday. “A dedicated, independent advocate can help them to navigate state government and protect their rights.”…