The reintroduction of the Older Americans Act (OAA) was announced by U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging Chairman Rick Scott and Ranking Member Kirsten Gillibrand, along with Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy and Ranking Member Bernie Sanders. The act aims to renew essential programs for older Americans. Originally enacted in 1965, the OAA has been a crucial source of nutrition, social services, and health support for nearly six decades.
The legislation was last reauthorized in 2020 with unanimous Senate approval. The new bill seeks to extend OAA programs through fiscal year 2030 while incorporating updates to enhance program integrity, encourage innovation and flexibility, and improve support for family caregivers and direct care workers. It also includes provisions to better serve tribal elders and seniors with disabilities.
Chairman Rick Scott expressed his commitment: “I'm proud to help lead this bipartisan legislation to strengthen support for America's seniors and reaffirm our commitment to helping them enjoy their golden years with dignity and independence.” He emphasized the importance of access to critical services made possible by the OAA.
Ranking Member Kirsten Gillibrand highlighted the act's significance: “The OAA has been a lifeline for American seniors since its passage more than half a century ago.” She stressed the need to continue funding these programs so that older Americans receive necessary support.
Senators Susan Collins, Tim Kaine, Ben Ray Luján, Ed Markey, Lisa Murkowski, and Markwayne Mullin are co-sponsors of the bill.
