(Originally Published by The Item, 1/17/2022)

Gov. Greg Abbott laid out new senior-focused policies unveiling his Compact with Seniors at an event held in Sun City.

As part of the compact, Abbott promised to further reduce property taxes for seniors older than 65 and eliminate elder abuse. He made the announcement in Sun City, the largest active adult community in the state located just north of Austin.

“Texas would not be the place of freedom, hope and opportunity that it is today without the seniors across our state,” Abbott said. “I am running for re-election as your governor because I believe Texas can and must do more to support and protect our seniors.”

Click below to view the video of Gov Abbott signing the Compact With Seniors

Abbott said under the compact, he will work to increase penalties for crimes committed against seniors including violent crimes, scams and schemes.

He added that he will give the Texas Attorney General “the authority to pursue and prosecute criminals who prey on seniors in Texas.”

“There is a rise in elder abuse, whether it’s physical or financial, and that is unacceptable,” Abbott said. “We will not allow elder abuse to occur in Texas, period.”

Governor Abbott was also awarded the coveted Guardian of Seniors Rights’ Award from 60 Plus, The American Association of Seniors.

The award was given in recognition of the unwavering commitment of Governor Abbott to Texas Senior Citizens. The award was presented by the president of 60 Plus, Saul Anuzis.

Click below to view the video of Gov Abbott receiving the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award

60 Plus, the American Association of Seniors Citizens thanks Governor Abbott for his steadfast commitment to protecting Seniors and his support of some of the most vulnerable in our sociably.