The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Older Americans Act (OAA) Reauthorization Act, renewing programs for seniors, according to a July 14 announcement from Senate Committee on Aging Chairman Rick Scott.
Scott said, “I am thrilled to see the OAA Reauthorization Act unanimously pass the Senate. This legislation is critical to protecting seniors’ independence and reaffirms Congress’ commitment to the older Americans who built and served this country. As Aging Committee Chairman, I have led the charge in reauthorizing the OAA and seen firsthand through multiple hearings the positive impacts legislative solutions can have on seniors and caregivers alike, giving dignity and strength to those living out their golden years. I am proud to have led this effort in the Senate and urge the House of Representatives to quickly pass the OAA and send it to President Trump’s desk. I want to thank my Republican and Democrat colleagues for supporting our seniors.”
Originally enacted in 1965, the OAA has provided nutrition, social, and health services for nearly six decades. The newly passed legislation would extend these programs through fiscal year 2030 with updates aimed at strengthening program integrity, encouraging innovation, enhancing support for family caregivers and direct care workers, as well as better serving Tribal elders and older adults with disabilities.
Ranking Member Kirsten Gillibrand joined Scott in reintroducing the bill in June 2025 alongside Senators Bill Cassidy, Bernie Sanders of Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee; Susan Collins; Tim Kaine; Ben Ray Luján; Ed Markey; Lisa Murkowski; and now-Secretary Markwayne Mullin as cosponsors.
The Senate Aging Committee examines issues affecting older Americans such as Social Security, Medicare, long-term care and retirement security while conducting hearings and issuing reports. Its oversight extends nationwide across all aging-related federal programs including Medicare, Social Security and elder abuse prevention through regular hearings and policy recommendations. The committee also provides resources like a fraud hotline aimed at protecting older adults from financial exploitation via its offices located in both Dirksen (majority) and Hart (minority) Senate Office Buildings, according to its official website.