Press Release

For Immediate Release
May 13, 2005
Contact: Barry Bennett
(573)751-1088

Lt. Governor Peter Kinder Applauds Passage of Elderly Abuse and ID Theft Legislation

Lt. Gov. Kinder thanks Sen. Luann Ridgeway for efforts to pass new laws

JEFFERSON CITY, MO — Missouri Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder thanked Missouri lawmakers for passing on to Governor Blunt legislation that would strengthen laws to protect Missouri seniors. Kinder added his thanks to Senator Luann Ridgeway (R-Smithville), for sponsoring major revisions to Missouri criminal code, and working for passage of HB 353 in the final week of session.

“ Sections of HB 353 added protection for individuals by prohibiting public posting of Social Security numbers” said Kinder. He added, “It also changes the penalties on identity theft amounts. This bill modifies penalties and definitions for the crime of financial exploitation of the elderly and disabled. I commend Sen. Ridgeway for looking out for our seniors and Missouri workers.”

“I want to thank Lieutenant Governor Kinder for his leadership and assistance in bringing these issues to my attention” said Sen. Ridgeway. She added, “Peter Kinder’s support on this issue, and many other issues that affect Missouri seniors has been invaluable.”

HB 353 modifies definitions for a class A felony for the crime of financial exploitation. It also clarifies the legal descriptions for a “disabled person” in Missouri, and revised the definition of and “elderly person”.

Lt. Gov. Kinder serves as the official Elderly Advocate for Missouri Seniors and serves on numerous boards and commissions that serve the needs of seniors, as well as serving as Chairman of the Missouri Senior Rx Commission.