Texas Senate Bill SR895

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 5/2/11
• Enrolled: 5/2/11
• Passed: 5/2/11

Caption

Proclaiming May of 2011 to be Elder Abuse Prevention Month in Texas.

Impact

The resolution serves to raise awareness about the prevalent issue of elder abuse, particularly in domestic and institutional settings. It emphasizes the alarming statistics provided by the Adult Protective Services program, which reported more than 82,000 investigations involving neglect and abuse during the previous fiscal year. By designating a specific month for this focus, the resolution seeks to mobilize community efforts towards prevention and reporting of such cases, ultimately aiming to foster a supportive environment for the elderly and disabled.

Summary

Senate Resolution 895 proclaims May of 2011 to be Elder Abuse Prevention Month in Texas, recognizing the vital contributions of the elderly and those with disabilities in the state. The resolution highlights the vulnerabilities these populations face, particularly relating to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. With roughly 2.4 million residents aged 65 and older and over 1.7 million adults living with disabilities in Texas, the resolution addresses the significant risks that isolation and dependency can create for these individuals.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SR895 is generally positive and supportive, emphasizing community responsibility to protect the vulnerable populations within society. The declaration is a call to action for citizens to engage in the fight against elder abuse, reinforcing the idea that it is a collective responsibility. The symbolic wearing of silver ribbons is noted as a way to sustain awareness and advocacy beyond the designated month, suggesting a long-term commitment to combating this issue.

Contention

While there are no overt points of contention in the resolution itself, the broader context surrounding elder abuse prevention often involves debates regarding the adequacy of current protective services and the need for more robust legal frameworks to safeguard against exploitation. The resolution reflects a consensus on the importance of protecting the elderly, yet the effectiveness of programs and community engagement initiatives may come under scrutiny in further legislative discussions.