Battin’s Elder Abuse Legislation passed out of the Assembly

Senator Jim Battin’s (R- La Quinta) SB 1343 sponsored by former Assemblyman and current Riverside County District Attorney Rod Pacheco passed off the Assembly Floor with a 72-0 vote. The bill would allow elderly or dependent adults to be given the opportunity to have a support person with them during witness testimony for elder abuse crimes. Currently, juveniles are allowed to have a support person with them during difficult testimony. Battin’s legislation would extend this protection so that older and dependent citizens who have been violated at least have the support of someone they can trust during what can be a very intense experience.

“I was pleased with the Assembly’s support and passage of this bill. Elder abuse whether financial or physical has lasting psychological affects on the victim. The least California can do is to ease a difficult experience,” Battin stated.

Next, this bill will be sent to the Governor’s desk for his signature.