Advocacy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fighting for lower prescription drug costs, housing solutions, fraud protections and more.

The City of Hudson among those transforming how cities support residents of all ages through local policy

This past summer, AARP Virgin Islands (AARP VI), in partnership with the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, successfully convened the first two of three Elder Justice Summit sessions. These gatherings brought together legislators, financial professionals, advocates, legal professionals, first responders, law enforcement, and mandated reporters. The consensus was clear: existing protections are insufficient. Findings from the first two sessions have shaped AARP VI’s legislative priorities, and the organization has pledged to lead the charge in advancing changes that will safeguard the financial futures of our elders.  AARP VI has already briefed Senators Novelle E. Francis, Jr., Avery L. Lewis, Kurt A. Vialet, Kenneth L. Gittens, and Marvin A. Blyden of the 36th Legislature, and has engaged the Lieutenant Governor’s Office.

AARP Maryland is proud to announce the appointment of Sara M. Westrick as its new Director of Advocacy. Ms. Westrick will lead AARP Maryland’s legislative strategy, working closely with volunteers, legislators, and community partners to champion issues that matter most to older adults—from caregiving and health care to financial security and livable communities.

AARP West Virginia and a coalition of other organizations — including anti-hunger advocates, farmers and businesses — successfully advocated this year for an additional $360,000 in the state budget to help older adults facing food insecurity.

Several new AARP-backed laws passed during Connecticut’s 2025 legislative session. The laws are aimed at lowering prescription drug prices; curbing utility costs; making it easier for people to cancel subscriptions; and eliminating excess fees by requiring companies to disclose the total price of all goods and services.

Livability means different things to different people — but basically, it means an environment that supports people of all ages, abilities, and income levels.

Minnesotans who have been defrauded now have a better chance of financial recovery, thanks to a new bipartisan law championed by AARP Minnesota. The Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund, the first of its kind in the nation, was signed into law in 2025 with strong bipartisan support. This innovative fund will help victims of fraud recover lost money—especially in cases where scammers are untraceable or bankrupt.

Here are some photo highlights from AARP Virgin Islands' 90th Anniversary Celebrations on August 14th and August 15th. The USVI really knows how to PARTY!