AARP Texas Prepares to Champion Aging Needs in 2025 Legislative Session

As the 2025 Texas legislative session approaches, AARP Texas is gearing up to champion a comprehensive agenda focused on the needs of older Texans and their families. With a commitment to nonpartisan advocacy, AARP Texas aims to address critical issues that impact the well-being and security of the aging population in the Lone Star State. With an increasing number of older adults facing financial hardships due to scams and fraud, AARP Texas is particularly focused on protecting this vulnerable demographic. Financial exploitation can have devastating consequences, and the organization is dedicated to advancing measures that safeguard older Texans from fraudulent schemes. Natural disasters pose another significant threat to older adults, who often lack the immediate resources to recover quickly. AARP Texas emphasizes the need for improved disaster preparedness and response, advocating for strategies that prioritize the health and safety of older residents during emergencies. The organization aims to work with lawmakers to ensure that infrastructure improvements are made with the specific needs of this population in mind, significantly reducing the disproportionate impact disasters can have on them. Health coverage remains a pressing concern for many Texans aged 50 and older. Access to affordable, quality healthcare services is essential for maintaining independence and quality of life. AARP Texas is committed to ensuring that older adults have equitable access to healthcare resources that meet their needs, including advocating for the continuation and expansion of programs that support affordable health coverage. Financial stability is also a cornerstone of AARP Texas’s agenda. Many older adults live on fixed incomes, making unexpected expenses particularly challenging. AARP Texas recognizes the strain that rising healthcare costs and inflation can place on this demographic and will be working diligently to promote policies that protect their savings and financial security. Kathy Green, the Director of State and Federal Strategy for AARP Texas, has highlighted key policy areas of focus for the upcoming legislative session, including food security, housing, mental health, and caregiving. Each of these areas encompasses critical aspects of life for older adults, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems to ensure their well-being. The fight for affordable prescription drugs and accessible health insurance is also a priority for AARP Texas. The organization aims to address the rising costs of medications and ensure that health insurance plans adequately cover the needs of older residents. Additionally, AARP Texas is advocating for improvements in consumer protections related to homeowners' insurance, long-term care, and utilities. These protections are essential for safeguarding the interests of older Texans, ensuring they receive fair treatment and support in their everyday lives. Moreover, as technology becomes increasingly vital in daily life, AARP Texas recognizes the necessity of accessible broadband services for older adults. Expanding access to reliable internet can help bridge the gap in communication and services, empowering older Texans to connect with essential resources and their communities. In the coming months, staff and volunteers will engage with lawmakers, legislative aides, and community organizations to push forward these essential priorities. AARP Texas is dedicated to being a voice for older Texans, ensuring their needs are recognized and addressed in the legislative process. As the 89th regular session of the Texas Legislature unfolds, the efforts of AARP Texas will play a crucial role in building a better future for aging Texans, one that champions health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment.