A new “Older Americans Bill of Rights” introduced by the House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging & Families has four pillars: financial and retirement security for seniors and their families; guaranteeing access to affordable, equitable and comprehensive healthcare; full participation and contribution to their communities; and aging with dignity and respect.
“The Older Americans Bill of Rights makes clear that every older American deserves high-quality, affordable healthcare and long-term care, financial and retirement security, and the ability to fully participate in and contribute to their communities,” said a caucus vice chair, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI).
The resolution was introduced Friday by the caucus’ co-chairs, Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Conor Lamb (D-PA); and vice chairs (in addition to Dingell) Reps. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) and Ted Deutch (D-FL). Additionally, 136 House Democrats, representing more than half of the House Democratic Caucus, have signed on as co-sponsors.
So far, 12 pieces of legislation supporting the principles outlined in the resolution, including the bipartisan Lower Drug Costs Now Act, have been passed in the House during the 116th Congress, according to the caucus.
The resolution is supported by dozens of organizations serving or advocating for older adults.
