Balderson: Seniors need protections now and in future against scam callers

U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson (R-OH) wants to prevent scam calls targeting America’s senior citizens during the ongoing pandemic and in the future when other public health emergencies may strike.

“Throughout the pandemic, uncertainty has led to many Ohioans falling victim to scam callers — especially vulnerable populations like seniors,” Rep. Balderson said. “We have a responsibility to stop bad actors like these scam artists in their tracks, and that starts with empowering the American people with information about known scam calls.”

The congressman on Jan. 25 cosponsored the bipartisan Protecting Seniors From Emergency Scams Act, H.R. 446, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL), which would direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to report to Congress on the number and types of scams targeting seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic and to recommend future prevention measures.

If enacted, H.R. 446 also would direct the FTC to update its web portal with information about scams targeting seniors; allow consumers to search for scams by region; and permit them to access contact information for law enforcement and adult protective service agencies, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Balderson’s office.

The FTC also would be required to work with media outlets and law enforcement agencies to distribute this information to seniors and their caregivers.

U.S. Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) on Jan. 22 introduced the companion bill, S. 15, in their chamber. 

The legislation is endorsed by AARP, the Elder Justice Coalition, the American Society on Aging, and the National Adult Protective Services Association.