U.S. Senate Passes Older Americans Act Reauthorization Supporting Those with Advanced Illness

On Tuesday, March 3rd, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020 (H.R. 4334), a critical piece of legislation which would reauthorize the Older Americans Act (OAA) through 2024. The bill now goes back to the U.S. House of Representatives, where it is expected to pass quickly. The OAA supports a range of critical home and community-based services for older adults and their caregivers, and C-TAC applauds lawmakers on both sides of the aisle for their leadership in supporting the Aging Network.

C-TAC is pleased to have worked closely with Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) in the development of language in the bill that would strengthen Aging Network providers’ understanding of serious illness principles and support their ability to use these guidelines to set priorities and care plans for the communities they serve.

“C-TAC is excited that the Senate has passed the Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020. As increasing numbers of older adults with serious and advanced illness choose to age in their homes and communities, it will be important to ensure that Aging Network community-based organizations (CBOs) have the best, most up-to-date guidance on care for those living with serious illness and their caregivers,” said C-TAC Executive Director Jon Broyles.

 “We encourage the House to pass this legislation and send the bill to the President’s desk for his swift signature. When that milestone is achieved, we look forward to continuing to work with our partners at n4a and our Congressional and Administration champions to ensure adequate funding and implementation of the law’s provisions,” said Broyles.