John, aging issues rarely make the news, but over the last few weeks there has been a lot of activity on Capitol Hill you should know about.

As Chair of the Leadership Council of Aging Organizations, NCOA has been busy encouraging the current Congress and the Biden administration to take action before the year ends. Here's a look at what's gone on and how you can shape what happens next.

Since the pandemic began, advocates have redoubled efforts to address older adult mental health concerns. We were pleased to see the House Ways and Means Committee approve legislation that would expand Medicare coverage of some therapists and mental health counselors, as well as initiate efforts to expand the mental health workforce. Drafts of this issue have also been released by the Senate Finance Committee, which we think bodes well for a positive outcome in December.

NCOA also submitted public comment to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, encouraging officials to:

Want to help improve Medicare? Join NCOA in commenting on the proposals to streamline enrollment into the Medicare Savings Program for low-income beneficiaries.

FY23 appropriations are not yet finalized, but Congress passed a Continuing Resolution to keep the government open through Dec. 16. Take a look at our updated funding table to see how aging programs and services have fared so far.

Congress has moved forward on bipartisan legislation to improve retirement savings. We expect it to pass during a lame duck session in December. With LCAO, we sent a letter to Congress outlining priorities to ensure middle- and lower-income adults are able to retire with additional savings and security. 

We were proud to be part of the Sept. 28 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. The resulting National Strategy enhances SNAP benefits and access, invests in Older Americans Act nutrition programs, and tests Medicare and Medicaid coverage of medically tailored meals and nutrition education.

To further advance equitable aging, we sent a response to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on proposed federal anti-discrimination protections, education, and enforcement, including language accessibility and digital equity for individuals with disabilities.

The midterm elections are top-of-mind, and we encourage everyone to get involved while staying safe. Remember that elected officials are seeking your support. Ask them about aging issues when you have the opportunity. Our Action Center is a great resource for educating yourself on key aging issues and contacting your members of Congress.

Congress will return in December, so please keep an eye out for more information and ways to act!