Antonio Commends Unanimous Senate Concurrence on Esther's Law
December 8, 2021
Nickie J. Antonio News
Today, state Senator Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) announced the Senate's unanimous concurrence on Senate Bill 58. S. B. 58, known as Esther’s Law and joint sponsored by Senators Antonio and Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware), aims to mitigate instances of elder abuse and neglect in long-term care facilities by permitting electronic monitoring of residents’ rooms.
“I am proud of this General Assembly’s dedication to aging Ohioans,” Antonio said. “Esther’s Law will provide families crucial peace of mind by allowing them to check up on their elderly loved ones wherever they may be. The Covid-19 pandemic truly highlighted the necessity of this legislation when in-person visits were not possible. It is an important first step in bringing families closer together and safeguarding the lives of some of the most vulnerable Ohioans.”
Elder abuse refers to any knowing, intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any person that causes harm or serious risk of harm to a vulnerable, older adult. From July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020, county departments of job and family services received more than 32,000 reports of abuse and neglect for adults age 60 and over in Ohio.
The Senate concurred on amendments added in the House regarding Department of Health’s rule-making authority and law enforcement surveillance. S. B. 58 now awaits the Governor’s signature. The bill will go into effect 90 days after his approval.
For more information on Esther’s Law, click here.
“I am proud of this General Assembly’s dedication to aging Ohioans,” Antonio said. “Esther’s Law will provide families crucial peace of mind by allowing them to check up on their elderly loved ones wherever they may be. The Covid-19 pandemic truly highlighted the necessity of this legislation when in-person visits were not possible. It is an important first step in bringing families closer together and safeguarding the lives of some of the most vulnerable Ohioans.”
Elder abuse refers to any knowing, intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any person that causes harm or serious risk of harm to a vulnerable, older adult. From July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020, county departments of job and family services received more than 32,000 reports of abuse and neglect for adults age 60 and over in Ohio.
The Senate concurred on amendments added in the House regarding Department of Health’s rule-making authority and law enforcement surveillance. S. B. 58 now awaits the Governor’s signature. The bill will go into effect 90 days after his approval.
For more information on Esther’s Law, click here.