U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, Bernie Sanders, Rick Scott, Kirsten Gillibrand, and others have reintroduced the Older Americans Act (OAA) Reauthorization Act. This legislation aims to renew funding and enhance services for American seniors.
Dr. Cassidy emphasized the importance of the act in helping seniors live healthy and independent lives. "The Older Americans Act is crucial in helping American seniors live healthy and independent lives in the settings they choose," he stated. The bill seeks to ensure that programs meet current and future needs of older Americans.
Senator Sanders highlighted the essential services funded by the OAA, including combating loneliness, job training, abuse protection, transportation to medical appointments, disease prevention, and caregiver support. He remarked on the financial benefits of such programs: "Not only does the Older Americans Act save lives and ease human suffering, it saves money."
Senator Scott expressed his pride in supporting this bipartisan effort: “I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan legislation to strengthen support for America’s older adults." He noted that over 59 million older Americans benefit from services provided through the OAA.
Senator Gillibrand reflected on the long-standing impact of the OAA since its inception over half a century ago. She stated that "this landmark legislation helps our nation’s seniors thrive" through various supportive programs.
The OAA has been providing vital nutrition, social, and health services since 1965. The proposed reauthorization would extend these programs through fiscal year 2030 while introducing improvements for innovation and flexibility. It also aims to better serve Tribal seniors and those with disabilities.
The previous reauthorization was passed unanimously last year under similar leadership from Senators Cassidy and Sanders.
