Today, President Obama signed into law S.192, the Older Americans Act reauthorization. The Senate originally passed S.192 in July of 2015, and the House passed an amended version of the bill last month. On April 7, 2016, the Senate passed the amended version and sent it to the President for his signature.

ADvancing States and our membership are very grateful to the President, Members of Congress, and their staff who have worked tirelessly to pass this important piece of legislation. We particularly want to thank the President for his support of older persons and individuals with disabilities.

The legislation includes many important provisions which seek to modernize the OAA to reflect the current and future realities of the Aging Network. ADvancing States is very supportive of the language that amends the Act to promote state flexibility, person-centeredness, and cultural and linguistic competence in the administration and delivery of OAA services. Additionally, ADvancing States supports the provisions in the bill to increase elder justice efforts across the country. We are also supportive of the increased funding authorizations for crucial OAA services.

Click here to view the letter.