Bonamici Praises Senate Passage of Update to Older Americans Act

Reauthorization of OAA Strengthens Services that Help Seniors Live Independently

WASHINGTON, DC [04/07/16] – Today, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) praised the Senate for passing legislation to update the Older Americans Act (OAA), which delivers nutritional and social services to millions of older adults.

Bonamici—a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce—took a lead role in helping to pass the bill in the House of Representatives last month. You can watch video of Congresswoman Bonamici speaking about OAA here. The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

“Older adults deserve to live independent, healthy, and fulfilling lives,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “In Oregon, I have seen how OAA programs help seniors remain connected to their communities and avoid costlier long-term care. The legislation passed today will help meet the growing need for services that make it possible for seniors to remain independent and healthy, and to age with dignity in their homes and communities. I am pleased that Congress has demonstrated a bipartisan commitment to supporting America’s older adults, and I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to strengthen these programs in the future.”

The reauthorization passed by Congress extends OAA programs for the next three years and increases investments in these programs. The legislation also strengthens protections against elder abuse, improves nutrition services, and updates the Family Caregiver Support Program.