Bill > H796

This bill establishes an independent Office of Older Adult Advocate to protect and support residents aged 60 and older in Massachusetts. The office will be led by an advocate appointed jointly by the Attorney General, State Auditor, and Governor, selected from a diverse nominating committee that includes representatives from various aging and elder care organizations. The advocate will serve a five-year term and can be removed for cause, with no more than two full terms allowed. The office's primary responsibilities include ensuring humane treatment of older adults receiving state services, coordinating with local aging councils to help seniors access benefits, examining state services for older adults, advising government on improving senior services, investigating incidents involving senior injuries or fatalities, and acting as a liaison between state and federal agencies. The advocate will be chosen based on expertise in areas like elder welfare, healthcare, public administration, and justice, without political consideration. Annually, the advocate must submit a public report to state leadership detailing the office's activities, service delivery analysis, and recommendations for improving elder care. In cases involving veterans, the Veterans' Advocate will take precedence if services are specifically related to veteran status, while the Older Adult Advocate will lead when services are age-based.