Changes in demographics may require new initiatives.
People are living longer, and proposals being considered during the legislative session are designed to protect Missouri seniors from financial fraud.
Secretary of State Jason Kander is supporting proposals filed in their respective chambers by Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Glendale, and by Rep. Jay Barnes, R-Jefferson City.
The common denominator among proponents is a desire to protect vulnerable citizens.
A recent federal study highlights the problem.
"The increase in life expectancy during the 20th century has been a remarkable achievement," reads the 100-page report produced by the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics. "Older age, however, is accompanied by increased risk of certain diseases and disorders"
Among them are Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
"Unfortunately, our seniors are often the targets of financial exploitation," Kander said, "particularly those suffering from cognitive decline."
The role of Missouri courts in protecting seniors also was a topic addressed by Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary R. Russell in her State of the Judiciary remarks to lawmakers nearly two weeks ago.
In the Legislature, the proposals were crafted after Kander hosted an October symposium and reported: "The symposium marked the beginning of a conversation among financial services industry professionals, senior advocates and law enforcement about how cognitive decline can make it difficult for seniors to make sound investment decisions, and how this difficulty makes them especially vulnerable to scams and bad actors."
The legislation would provide financial industry professionals with resources, including training offered through the secretary of state's office, to identify signs of cognitive decline. Financial professionals also would be equipped with tools to halt financial exploitation of seniors.
In addition, the proposal would promote collaboration between the financial industry and state agencies that serve seniors and investigation wrongdoing.
The federal study found not only that people are living longer, but their economic status has "improved markedly."
Seniors can enjoy the independence that comes from their hard-earned financial stability only if they are not victimized and defrauded by con artists.
Missouri seniors deserve these protections.