Valesky-Sponsored Legislation to Protect Seniors from Scams Signed into Law

SYRACUSE  –  Legislation  sponsored  by  State  Senator  David  J.  Valesky (D-Oneida)   that   will   protect   senior   citizens  from  deception  by professionals who use senior-specific designations (S.7254) was signed into law by Governor Cuomo. The new law requires anyone using such a designation to disclose its source in advertisements and to prospective clients.

Seniors  often prefer to work with professionals who have training in their specific  issues. In an effort to attract such seniors, professionals often pursue licensure, registration or some sort of independent designation that requires  specialized  training.  However,  it  is  important  to make sure seniors  are  aware of the source of these designations so they can be sure they are legitimate.

“This legislation is intended to decrease the number of situations in which seniors  are  deceived  by professionals using senior-specific designations that do not actually exist,” Senator Valesky said. “By signing this bill into  law,  Governor Cuomo has assured that seniors will have the knowledge they need to avoid dishonest individuals and con artists.”

“Every  new  hurdle  for  those  who  would deceive older New Yorkers helps combat  elder  financial  exploitation,  a  scourge  that’s  growing as our population  ages. We’re pleased Governor Cuomo has signed Senator Valesky’s bill  into law to deter those who would inaccurately pass themselves off as senior  experts.  Financial exploitation, which often robs victims of their life  savings, costs older Americans $3 billion a year – and that’s just in reported abuse,” said Beth Finkel, State Director of AARP in New York State.

The bill requires disclosures in advertisements that include a description indicating the person has expertise or training in their field with regard to  issues  specifically related to seniors and that set forth the basis or source  of  such a designation. A violation of this law would be punishable by a civil penalty of up to $5,000 for each infraction.