Tuesday, February 13, 2024
For over a decade, annual investments in federal aging services programs have not only failed to keep pace with the growth in the number and diversity of older Americans, but also suffered from indiscriminate cuts. Currently, Congress is in the middle of the 2024 fiscal year appropriation decisions, and it is essential that advocates speak up for older adults, caregivers, Medicare beneficiaries, and community members to make sure we change course to invest in essential aging services.
Funding decisions that were due at the beginning of the current fiscal year remain unfinished, making the fate of many programs and benefits for older adults uncertain. We are currently under yet another continuing resolution (CR) which extends the FY23 appropriations for the Older Americans Act (OAA). While conversations are ongoing, the current CR that keeps OAA services funded is ending on March 8. Now is the time to advocate for adequate funding.
In addition, the authorization and funding for the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act’s (MIPPA) low-income outreach and assistance program was dropped from the continuing resolution at the last minute. This major oversight currently leaves MIPPA unauthorized and unfunded. This could make it hard to administer the program in the next few months. and community partners rely on this funding to conduct targeted outreach to those Medicare beneficiaries most in need of these cost-saving programs.
Action Needed
Join AgeGuide in urging policymakers to extend funding for the Older Americans Act and low-income Medicare beneficiaries. There are two action alerts that need your attention. Send a letter now.
Together, we can ensure older adults receive the care and support they need to thrive as they age through the FY 2024 appropriations.
