AARP Idaho is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization representing more than 180,000 members statewide. We work with legislators on both sides of the aisle to support legislation and issues that make Idaho a better place to live for everyone.
AARP Idaho Director Lupe Wissel
Earlier this year, at AARP Idaho’s day of action at the Capitol, Gov. Little said, “If you’re not at the public policy debate table, chances are you’re on the menu.” people are at the table, and that’s what matters.
He’s right, during this past legislative session, staff and volunteers worked diligently to advance legislation that benefits Idaho citizens of all ages, not just those over the age of 50. There will always be winners and losers in the legislative session, but there is no question that Idaho’s senior population has benefited greatly.
For example, as Idaho’s population continues to grow and home prices continue to rise, affordable housing options, smart property tax solutions, fair We fought for the rental policy. He advocated changes to the circuit breaker program so that those who did not qualify last year could do so in the future. We supported House Bill 51 and a more transparent property valuation notice. I also supported House Bill 238, which protects homeowners from unfair service contracts and predatory housing practices. We voted in favor of House Bill 166, which gives private property owners the right to have a living unit attached to their property and earn additional income. We hear more than anything that people in Idaho want to grow old in a place of dignity. These measures make it possible and we are proud to support initiatives and laws that allow people to choose how they want to live as they age.
By prompting the release of a report from the Office of Performance Evaluation titled Sustainability of Idaho’s Direct Care Workforce, we recognize the thousands of Idahoans and their families who depend on the direct care workforce. defended The report highlights the shortage of direct care workers in Idaho and should have been made public so that appropriate policy changes can be made.
We will protect Idaho voters by vehemently opposing and ultimately rejecting House Bill 205, which amends Idaho’s absentee voting requirements and unnecessarily restricts how Idahoans can vote. Did. Voting is the right of every citizen and the focus should be on increasing voter turnout rather than building barriers. Ultimately, Congress agreed with us.
This year also served as a reminder that our work was only just beginning when the bill was approved. In 2018, Idaho voters overwhelmingly voted in favor of expanding Medicaid to protect those who can’t afford health insurance. Some lawmakers wanted to take a step back and scrap the effort. We disagreed and stalled the effort. We will continue to protect Medicaid and help those who need it most.
For years, all levels of government have debated telemedicine policy. This kind of care is very important for the aging rural population of Idaho. That’s why we’re so happy that our work will help pass the Virtual Care Access Act. This important piece of legislation modernizes the Telemedicine Access Act to align with the post-COVID healthcare system and provides the convenience and independence associated with virtual healthcare. bottom. This is an important legal tool for those who are homebound or have mobility problems.
What AARP members have to say on the agenda of the day needs and will continue to attract the attention of the Idaho Legislature. The Idaho Department of Labor estimates that by 2026, 20% of the state’s population will be over her 65, so this makes sense.
Whether it’s about financial security, access and affordability to healthcare, or making Idaho communities more livable, we are the wise and powerful friends of Idaho’s 50+. The 2023 Legislative Session is over, but we are already preparing for next year.
