Last week, Senate File 522 passed off the Iowa House floor unanimously. District 79 State Representative Dustin Hite says it was a privilege to be the floor manager of the bill providing enhanced penalties for people who physically abuse older Iowans or steal from them. In addition, it creates a new crime of financial exploitation of an older person.

“In my practice back home, I have seen instances where older Iowans have been taken advantage of financially, sometimes by a stranger, but many times by a loved one or close friend,” he says.

Hite says the bill will give county attorneys the tools to prosecute these crimes and ensure the safety of older Iowans.