BOSTON -- State Rep. Betty Poirier's long campaign to give senior citizens greater protection against abuse appears to be nearing fruition.

Poirier, a North Attleboro Republican, said a bill she has championed for several years is expected to receive final legislative approval soon, and she is hopeful it will be signed by Gov. Mitt Romney.

The bill would make council on aging directors and outreach workers `` mandated reporters'' of elder abuse. While these people can file such reports now, they might never learn what happens to the complaints, and therefore can't always determine whether the victim is still in danger, say advocates for the elderly.

For complete story, see today's Sun Chronicle.